Kjell Olaf Jensen receives the Royal Norwegian Order of St. Olav

His Majesty has in his appraisal especially emphasised Jensen's work for the freedom of expression. The Order of St. Olav is the highest Norwegian decoration for civil merit, and is conferred as "a reward for distinguished services rendered to the country and mankind".

"In his capacity of being president of Norwegian PEN, Kjell Olaf Jensen was instrumental in the work to develop and extend the Norwegian network of cities of refuge from the late 90ties. Jensen also played an important role when negotiations started to form and offically establish ICORN in 2004 and 2005. He still serves as an important expert and inspirator for our organisation. We take the opportunity today to thank Kjell Olaf for all his fantastic work for ICORN, and congratulate him with the very well deserved Royal Norwegian Order of St. Olav."

says Helge Lunde, ICORN Executive Director.