Independent University, Bangladesh (IUB) and the Royal Norwegian Embassy in Dhaka have signed an agreement to jointly organise the “Henrik Ibsen and Jon Fosse Festival in Bangladesh,” an initiative focused on promoting Norwegian literature, theatre, and cultural exchange in Bangladesh.

The agreement was signed on 21 June 2026 at the Norwegian Embassy in Dhaka by Norwegian Ambassador Håkon Arald Gulbrandsen and IUB Vice Chancellor Prof M Tamim.

The festival, tentatively scheduled for October 2026, forms part of preparations leading up to the bicentenary of Henrik Ibsen in 2028. It will highlight the works of Henrik Ibsen, one of Norway’s most influential playwrights, and Jon Fosse, a Nobel Prize-winning author.

According to the agreement, the initiative aims to enhance awareness of Norwegian literary traditions, promote cultural understanding, and encourage engagement with international literature and creative expression in Bangladesh. Planned activities include keynote sessions and theatre productions.

Henrik Ibsen (1828–1906) is widely regarded as a pioneer of modern drama, known for works such as A Doll’s House, Ghosts, and Hedda Gabler. Jon Fosse is recognised for his contributions to contemporary literature, including plays, novels, and poetry, and for his distinctive literary style.

The collaboration reflects a broader effort to strengthen cultural ties between Bangladesh and Norway through literature and performing arts.