Twenty years ago, De Klerk won the Nobel Peace Prize

THE HAGUE - Twenty years ago, former president of South Africa Frederik Willem de Klerk was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize together with Nelson Mandela. They received the Nobel Peace Prize for their efforts to put an end to the Apartheid-era and for promoting democratic processes in South Africa.

Many people criticized De Klerk's laureation for the Nobel Peace Prize. The criticism focused on his political practice up until his presidency. He was deemed a conservative, as he never advocated reforms. Even as a Minister of Education he supported segregation at university level.

After retiring from active politics in South Africa, he continued to promote democratic values, human rights and peace around the world. De Klerk's own foundation aims to promote equality, peace and democratic values, especially in South Africa. De Klerk also chairs the Global Leadership Foundation, which promotes good governance around the world.

On October 25th, De Klerk delivers the 12th Europe Lecture. The central theme of the lecture is 'Europe in the World'.