Letters from Norway

Reflections from the Oslo Freedom Forum 2017 – Defending Democracy


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Podcast show notes

0:00 to 3:38: Introduction

* The Oslo Freedom Forum was held May 20-24, 2017 in Oslo.
* The theme for this year was “Defending Democracy.”

* 52% of the world’s population lives in oppressive regimes,
* Claim that democratic processes have slowed down.


* An annual conference to “brainstorm ways to expand freedom and unleash human potential across the globe.
* The real question? What does “freedom,” “democracy,” and “forum” really mean when used in the same sentence?
* Discuss the pillars of democracy including the right to bear (unregistered) firearms.



They forgot the right to bear arms

3:39 – 9:20: The Panel Discussion in the Park

* Attended the park event on May 21 at 3-4pm in the park by National Theater in downtown Oslo.
* Nick expresses admiration for bold people, willing to put their lives on the line, even if they don’t agree with his beliefs.
* Reflections from the panel discussion.
* The role of western countries in the Middle East.
* Thoughts on President Trump, BREXIT, and Globalism.


An Illiberal democracy is one that is hollow -just in name, having phony or show elections, like in Iran. 

9:21 – 18:24: Q&A and Debate Session

* Key historical events leading to modern western democracy.
* Citing Ayaan Hirsi Ali, asking about Islamic ideological reform?
* The panelists' response to my question.
* Post-debate and discussion reflections.

18:25 – 24:44: Discussion of Key Questions

* What is freedom?
* Why is it so elusive?
* How do you get it?
* How do we keep it?
* What are the tradeoffs?
* Foundations of Freedom

24:45 – 30:10: Immigration Policy and Closing Thoughts

* The “Equal Protection Under Law” concept (14th Amendment)
* Banning symbols and clothes does not stop intent.
* Applying Smart Conservatism Principals

* Restricting immigration from non-Anglo-Saxon nations and extreme vetting.
* Mandate more rigorous US History & Constitution curriculum and testing in schools, colleges and for those applying for residence (of any kind) and American Citizenship.


* Closing thoughts on our responsibilities.

Notes & References:

Oslo Freedom Forum 2017 Overview

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R0AV74pLkxQ

Fleeing Tyranny or Bringing it with Them? ( Khadija Khan May 31, 2017 at 5:00 am)

The Magna Carta

https://youtu.be/66ZcXBUx5IA

Ayaan Hirsi Ali

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q6Wrhivp7eQ

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5AkAGc5nOXw

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wJkFQohIKNI

Linda Sarsour

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w41mgPXmZNs

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XfAqiIZ_aDU

http://www.dailywire.com/news/12852/muslim-womens-march-organizer-attacks-female-hank-berrien#

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Letters from NorwayBy Nick Kamran - American in Oslo