Ralf Knoblauch, advocate for human dignity, receives the Golden Planet Award 2025

Ralf Knoblauch

Frankfurt, November 7, 2025 – On Friday evening, the prestigious Golden Planet Award 2025 was presented in the impressive Skyline Studios of Radio Frankfurt, high above the sparkling lights of the city. This year, the award went to Bonn-based deacon, theologian, and sculptor Ralf Knoblauch, whose unique royal figures have been touching and inspiring people around the world for years.

The atmosphere in the studio was filled with anticipation, amazement, and deep respect as the award winner took the stage. The numerous guests in attendance – including representatives from the worlds of culture, politics, business, and civil society – were inspired and wide awake.

Ralf Knoblauch, who has created a worldwide symbol of the inviolable dignity of human beings with his hand-carved figures of kings and queens, was visibly touched as he accepted the award.

Königsfigur

In his speech, Rainer Doemen emphasized: “Ralf Knoblauch’s art reminds us of who we are: people with an inner crown. His royal figures stand for peace, humanity, justice, and hope – values that are more important today than ever before.”

The award ceremony was an evening of special moments. Images of his “Pilgrims of Hope” were shown on a large screen – wooden sculptures that are used in Israel, Dubai, and numerous social hotspots around the world, among other places. Each figure tells its own story: a story of courage, compassion, and a firm belief in the dignity of every individual.

Rainer Doemen, Astrid Arens, Ralf Knoblauch
From left: Rainer Doemen, Lady Astrid Arens, Ralf Knoblauch

In his acceptance speech, Knoblauch spoke of the “deep responsibility” that comes with the award: “My kings do not wear crowns of gold – their crown is the dignity that every human being is entitled to. The fact that this message is now gaining international recognition fills me with deep gratitude.”

The Golden Planet Award is presented annually to individuals who have made a special contribution to sustainability, social cohesion, and respectful coexistence through their work. Ralf Knoblauch thus joins a group of international personalities who inspire and build bridges in extraordinary ways.

Ralf Knoblauch has found a universal language in his art – a language that connects people. The presentation of the Golden Planet Award 2025 sent a powerful message about this special work and made it clear that dignity, compassion, and humanity must never be lost sight of.

A big thank you also goes to the initiators of the Golden Planet Award 2025: Lady Dr. h.c. Astrid Arens (Voice Aid Association) and Stephan Schwenk (Radio Group), who successfully hosted this special event for the fourth time at the Sykline Studios of Radio Frankfurt.

Golden Planet Award 2025
From left to right: Dr. Leong Ying, Ralf Knoblauch, Silke Wesselmann, Andrea Wen, Timm Duffner, district administrator Dr. Sommer, Jessica Stockmann, Raoul Helmer, Lady Astrid Arens, Max Studennikoff, Carl Fechner, Miriam Schroer, Rainer Doemen, Daniela Singhal, Frank Schweikert
Photographer: Dr. Leong Ying, USA

Photos: Kaydienne Mitchell, London