Yulia Navalnaya, a leading figure in the fight for human rights and democracy in Russia, was honored by the Archons of the Ecumenical Patriarchate with the prestigious Athenagoras Human Rights Prize 2024, reports the official website of the Archdiocese Greek Orthodox. This distinction, awarded during a solemn ceremony “recognizes Navalnaya’s courage and commitment in the pursuit of freedom for Russia. Yulia, wife of the late Alexei Navalny, leader of the Russian opposition, embodies the fight they led together for a Russia free of tyranny,” specifies the same source.
The program of the ceremony, beginning with the Greek and American national anthems performed by Constantine Pappas, was marked by the invocation of His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophore of America. He addressed his prayers to the hierarchs, members of the clergy and the Greek Orthodox community present for the event. The ceremony was opened by the Honorable B. Theodore Bozonelis, National Vice Commander of the Archons, who welcomed the guests with moving words.
Significant interventions followed, notably those of Serge Schmemann of the New York Times and Dr Anthony Limberakis, national commander of the Archons. They praised Alexei and Yulia’s unwavering commitment to human rights and democracy in Russia, as well as their unwavering determination despite the tragic circumstances surrounding Alexei’s death. The evening was also punctuated by a poignant musical tribute offered by the string quartet of the Greek Youth Symphony Orchestra, in memory of Alexeï Navalny.
A particularly moving moment was the broadcast of a video tribute retracing the commitment of Alexei and Yulia in their fight for freedom. In this video message, Alexeï Navalny declared: “You do not have the right to give up… If they decide to kill me, it means that we are incredibly strong. » Still according to the same source: “This testimony reinforced the symbolic nature of the ceremony, while recalling the sacrifices made by those who defend the values of freedom and justice in Russia. »
Archbishop Elpidophore presented Yulia Navalnaya with the Athenagoras Human Rights Prize, drawing cheers and cries of “Axia” from the audience. He also praised Navalnaya’s strength and resilience in the face of the loss of her husband, calling her a beacon of hope for an oppression-free future in Russia: “Amidst the pain and loss of your martyr husband, you “You have found a way to keep his memory alive for all of us who considered Alexei as the last hope for a Russia finally freed from tyranny,” declared Archbishop Elpidophore.
Yulia Navalnaya, accepting the award, paid tribute to the memory of Alexei and reaffirmed her commitment to a free Russia. It also raised questions about the role religion should play in Russia, not as a tool of state propaganda, but as a vital social institution. “How can the Orthodox Church regain the trust of the people and find a place in their hearts? she asked, emphasizing the importance of a faith that strengthens community bonds and teaches kindness.
The Athenagoras Human Rights Prize was established in 1986 by the National Council of Archons of the Ecumenical Patriarchate. Named in honor of the late Ecumenical Patriarch of Constantinople Athenagoras I, this award recognizes those who exemplify action and dedication for the fundamental rights and religious freedom of all. Previous honorees include President Jimmy Carter, Archbishop Desmond M. Tutu and Elie Wiesel.
