Cultural Policy Award: Actress Iris Berben is awarded the Cultural Policy Award 2026
The German actor Iris Berben has been awarded the German Culture Policy Prize 2026 for her activism against antisemitism and racism. The award, presented by the German Cultural Council, recognizes her decades-long efforts in combating hate ideologies and promoting social justice. The ceremony is scheduled for September 24th at the Berlin State Library, where pianist Igor Levit will deliver the speech. Berben, born in 1950 and renowned as one of Germany’s most celebrated actresses, is praised for integrating her artistic work with a strong societal stance. She uses readings, school visits, public discussions, and speeches to remember Nazi crimes and advocate for Jewish visibility. Her work highlights the ongoing societal responsibility to address antisemitism, racism, and far-right extremism. This prize follows previous awards, including one received by former Culture Minister Monika Grütters in 2025.
The German cultural policy prize for 2026 has been awarded to actress Iris Berben, recognizing her long-standing commitment to fighting antisemitism, racism, and right-wing extremism. The announcement was made by the German Cultural Council in Berlin, which cited her efforts in promoting democratic education, remembrance culture, and Jewish life. The ceremony will take place on September 24, with pianist Igor Levit delivering the laudation. Berben, who turns 76 this year, has had a distinguished career spanning several decades. She gained recognition through roles such as Commissioner Rosa Roth in a television series that aired until 2013, and more recently for her performance in Ruben Östlund’s film “Triangle of Sadness,” which won the Golden Palm at the Cannes Film Festival in 2022. Her contributions extend beyond acting, however, as she has consistently engaged in political activism throughout her life. Her engagement began during her youth when she joined the Hamburg branch of the APO, a student organization active during the 1960s. As a young woman, she traveled to Israel following the Six-Day War in 1967. For her sustained efforts against antisemitism, racism, and right-wing extremism, as well as her support for Israel's existence within secure borders, she received the Leo Baeck Prize from the Central Council of Jews in Germany in 2002. In addition to accolades for her acting, Berben has received numerous awards for her social work. Most recently, she was honored with the Annemarie Renger Prize by the Workers' Samaritan Association, named after the first democratically elected president of a German parliament. Since 2022, she has also worn the Order of the Merit Against the Seriousness of Animals. The looming success of the Alternative for Germany (AfD) in upcoming state elections highlights the growing strength of far-right forces in Germany. At a time when solidarity and unity are needed more than ever, Berben's dedication to fostering a strong civil society is particularly significant. Her actions underscore the importance of public figures using their influence to challenge prejudice and promote inclusivity. The German Cultural Council emphasized that Berben's work demonstrates how artists can exert societal influence when they use their platform to advocate for others. Her consistent opposition to silence in the face of injustice underscores the necessity of ongoing dialogue about antisemitism, racism, and right-wing extremism. According to Olaf Zimmermann, managing director of the Cultural Council, her efforts are credible, persistent, and hold considerable cultural significance. Born in 1950, Berben is one of Germany's most renowned actresses. She has been recognized multiple times for her acting performances. The German Cultural Policy Prize, established in 2021 by the German Cultural Council, honors individuals for outstanding contributions to cultural politics. It evolved from the Kulturgroschen award, which has been given since 1992. Last year, former Culture Minister Monika Grütters (CDU) received the honor.
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