Oslo Freedom Forum: A Top Bitcoin Event Beyond Bitcoin
4 min read
Oslo Freedom Forum: A Top Bitcoin Event Beyond Bitcoin
In both 2022 and 2023, I found myself immersed in over a dozen conferences each year, frequently taking on the role of a vibrantly dressed Master of Ceremonies. My responsibilities included moderating panels and attempting to downplay my bias towards Bitcoin (BTC). I put together quizzes, game shows, and stimulating talks aimed at encouraging audiences to see things from a fresh perspective. With this background, I can comfortably say that I know a fair bit about conferences, networking events, and how to captivate an audience. Reflecting on my experiences from global events such as the World Economic Forum in Davos, El Salvador’s Adopting Bitcoin, the Web Summit in Lisbon, and AfroBitcoin in Ghana, the Oslo Freedom Forum stands out as unparalleled.
Nestled in Norway’s elegant yet serene capital, the Oslo Freedom Forum is an intellectual feast. Attendees find themselves entering the Oslo Concert Hall at the start of the day, often still groggy from late-night conversations with freedom fighters and bitcoin enthusiasts. From your seat, you’ll embark on a global journey through powerful human experiences and narratives. Nowhere else can you encounter such a compelling, inspiring, and passionate group of people. Activists and performers from every corner of the globe take the stage to exercise and defend their freedom of speech. The convergence of these diverse minds and the collision of ideas generate an energy that is simply unmatched.
The stories shared span a wide geographical area, from Rwanda to Palestine, Uganda to Ukraine, evoking a spectrum of emotions. Listeners find themselves deeply moved—sometimes to tears, other times into silent reflection or even bursts of laughter. One particularly poignant moment was an Iranian operatic singer performing in Norway, far from her homeland where she is denied the right to sing. Such moments underscore the forum’s powerful impact and its ability to connect people despite vast distances.
The degree of professionalism in orchestrating this engaging and polished event was awe-inspiring. Discussions ranged widely, touching on topics like gender issues, war, famine, and acts of heroism. Bitcoin, though not the main focus, had a significant presence. I had the opportunity to field questions about Bitcoin’s privacy features, such as CoinJoin, from activists seeking to liberate imprisoned colleagues. Notable Bitcoin advocates like Lyn Alden shared valuable insights about financial freedom tools, algorithms, and control mechanisms on the main stage.
The forum was so stirring that it kept me awake at night, pondering over the day’s discussions. Despite averaging only five hours of sleep each night in Norway, the lack of rest was more a result of the event’s intensity rather than the typically restrained nightlife of the city. Unique experiences were also abundant off-stage, including impromptu selfies with famed Colombian musicians, intriguing conversations with exiled Indian journalists, and unexpected lessons in how global brands and governments launder money. A particularly memorable moment was shaking hands with Jack Dorsey and inviting him to surf Nazaré in Portugal, though he politely declined.
Professionally, the forum was a treasure trove of opportunities. As a Bitcoin journalist, I am eager to produce more documentaries and articles highlighting freedom technologies in action. My upcoming travels to Ukraine, Bolivia, and Venezuela promise to uncover more stories of struggle, resilience, and financial liberation—stories filled with profound joy amidst adversity.
Thor Halvorssen, the CEO of the Oslo Freedom Forum, emphasized in his opening speech that the event is not a competition in suffering, but rather a platform for finding joy and laughter even in dark times. Meeting Thor briefly at the after-party, I fumbled to encapsulate the forum’s essence, likening it to a TED conference on steroids. Having worked for TED before, I knew this comparison only scratched the surface of the emotional depth offered at the forum.
Despite the event’s overarching sense of optimism, a recurring theme was the grim reality of human conflict. Speakers like Paul Rusesabagina, known for his role during the Rwandan genocide, emphasized the power of words as a weapon. Similarly, Faisal Al Mutar’s journey from the turmoil in Iraq to reaching millions with his message underlined the efficacy of speech in combating autocracy. The forum reinforced the notion that to change the world, we need to wield our words with joy, resilience, and humanity—qualities that the Oslo Freedom Forum abundantly provides.
Comparatively speaking, even Europe’s largest Bitcoin conference, BTC Prague, falls short of the richness of the Oslo Freedom Forum. If I had to choose one event from the Bitcoin and crypto calendar for next year, it would undoubtedly be the Oslo Freedom Forum. The experience there is unparalleled, and I am already eagerly anticipating next year’s gathering. As a freelance journalist and filmmaker specializing in Bitcoin communities, with academic backgrounds from the University of Edinburgh and Sciences Po Lyon, I am excited to continue documenting the stories that emerge from such transformative events.
Attending late-night conversations and then struggling through the day talkssounds like poor time management to me.
Your descriptions make me feel like I was right there with you. A masterful recounting of an extraordinary event!
Averaging only five hours of sleep? Thats not healthy and certainly not something to boast about.
The Oslo Freedom Forum’s impact on both a personal and professional level is clear from your reflections. Keep inspiring us!
I can only imagine the energy and passion at the Oslo Freedom Forum. It seems to be a true intellectual and emotional feast!
Kudos to you for managing to stay awake and productive despite the late-night conversations! That’s true dedication.
This piece left me feeling inspired and hopeful. Thank you for sharing such a rich and meaningful experience.
Your zest for captivating and engaging audiences is so evident. Keep up the colorful and vibrant work!
This reads more like an ad for the Oslo Freedom Forum than a genuine recount of your experiences.
Hearing about the stories of resilience from around the world is a reminder of the strength of the human spirit.
The convergence of different ideas and experiences must create an unparalleled atmosphere. Would love to witness it one day!
Meeting people like Jack Dorsey and hearing powerful stories from freedom fighters must have been unforgettable!
The story of the Iranian operatic singer gave me chills. Its stories like these that make the Oslo Freedom Forum so impactful.
Your bias towards Bitcoin is showing despite your attempt to ‘downplay’ it. Not very professional.
Your comparison to a TED conference on steroids made me chuckle, but it sounds spot-on! 🎤💥
For someone who’s supposedly experienced, there’s a surprising lack of critical reflection in your write-up.
Honestly, attending over a dozen conferences each year sounds exhausting and counterproductive. Maybe focus on quality over quantity?
Your moderation skills and engaging activities must have made the conferences even more memorable for attendees! 🎤🎉
Bringing up conversations with celebrities like Jack Dorsey feels like name-dropping and irrelevant to the article’s theme.
Such a well-written piece! The Oslo Freedom Forum seems to combine intellectual rigor with a heartfelt mission. 🎓❤️
Thor Halvorssen’s vision for the forum is truly inspiring, and it’s wonderful to hear about its real-world impact on attendees. 🌟✨
Claiming other Bitcoin conferences fall short without providing substantial reasons is unfair and biased.
Thanks for sharing your reflections! The Oslo Freedom Forum sounds like an event that leaves a lasting impact on its attendees. 🌍💬
The comparison between TED and Oslo Freedom Forum is uncalled for. Both have their unique strengths.
The Oslo Freedom Forum truly sounds like an unparalleled gathering of thinkers and activists. Thanks for giving us a glimpse into it! 🌍📸
The portrayal of the Oslo Freedom Forum makes me want to attend it myself! It sounds like a gathering of extraordinary minds and unforgettable experiences.
The emotional depth and professional organization of the Oslo Freedom Forum truly set it apart. Can’t wait to see what next year holds! 🌟
The self-praise here is a bit too much. Calling yourself ‘vibrantly dressed’ and talking about your ‘captivating’ skills feels very self-centered.
From Bitcoin to freedom of speech, the range of topics covered is impressive. Its great to see such important conversations happening.
I love how you highlighted the diverse and powerful stories from around the globe. It’s inspiring to see how much impact these conferences can have!
Your article beautifully weaves personal experiences with the larger narrative of the forum. An exceptional read!
Your passion for both Bitcoin and freedom technologies shines through. Keep up the amazing work in documenting these important stories! 🚀📚
Thor Halvorssen’s words about finding joy even in dark times resonate deeply. A great reminder for all of us!
Your role as the Master of Ceremonies must have been such a thrill, especially with that splash of vibrant colors! 🕺🎉