ILI with great sorrow spreads the news of yet another loss of a great friend and colleague in our lobby for Independent Living. Knut Flaaum, one of the five founders of ULOBA – Independent Living in Norway, took his last breath on the 24th of August 2026.
Knut was a long time committed Independent Living activist working for personal assistance and the strengthening of Independent Living. His work alongside of Vibeke Maröy Melström and the other founders of ULOBA in Norway made a difference for disabled people. This not only in Norway but out in Europe and in the world.
Knut has been one of my colleagues in ENIL – the European Network on Independent Living and in the ENIL Foundation, Bente Skangård’s Independent Living Fund and in general for raising the awareness of our life situations in this world. With a smile often on his face and a chuckle he was one I turned to for answers to my questions.
With each loss of our great leaders, I feel fear for the future but then I turn and see the flow of new and younger persons carrying the spirit of Independent Living forward. I am thankful for Knut and his commitment and engagement in Independent Living and for his friendship. May we keep Knut alive by saying his name and what he meant for our movement. Rest in peace and power Knut.
Jamie Bolling