Julija Nawalnaja Receives CEU Open Society Prize for Her Advocacy

On June 21, 2025, the Central European University (CEU) awarded the prestigious Open Society Prize to Julija Nawalnaja, a prominent figure in the Russian opposition and the widow of the late Alexej Nawalny. Alexej Nawalny, a staunch critic of the Russian government, tragically lost his life in a Russian penal colony in 2024.

During the award ceremony held in Vienna, Nawalnaja was represented by her daughter, Daria, who accepted the award on her behalf. The CEU recognized Nawalnaja for her unwavering commitment to the fight against authoritarianism and corruption in Russia. The university emphasized her role as a fearless advocate for justice, dignity, and democratic reforms.

Prof. Shalini Randeria, the President and Rector of CEU, highlighted Nawalnaja's experiences with severe political repression and persecution, stating that she has emerged as a courageous leader in the struggle for an open society amidst oppressive regimes.

For many years, Nawalnaja played a supportive role in her husband's political endeavors, often described as an "invisible helper." However, her public profile rose significantly following the 2020 poisoning of Alexej Nawalny with the nerve agent Novichok, after which she became more active in the political landscape. Following her husband's death, Nawalnaja has continued to take on a leading role in advocating for political change in Russia.

Currently recognized as the most prominent opposition figure in Russia, Nawalnaja has expressed her intention to return to Russia and engage in political activities once the regime of President Vladimir Putin has ended. The CEU Open Society Prize is awarded annually to individuals or groups whose efforts promote democracy and open societies, principles foundational to the university's mission. Previous recipients include notable figures such as Kofi Annan and Svetlana Alexievich.

Nawalnaja's activism intensified after her husband was detained upon their return to Russia in 2021. She has faced multiple arrests while leading protests against the government. Her impactful speeches, including a notable address at the Munich Security Conference, have called for accountability for the actions taken against her family and the Russian people under Putin's rule.

In July 2024, Russian authorities issued a warrant for her arrest, accusing her of involvement with an extremist organization. Despite this, Nawalnaja remains resolute in her commitment to her husband's legacy and the fight for a democratic Russia. In an interview, she articulated her vision for a future political role after the end of Putin's era.

The CEU, a private non-profit university, is dedicated to providing an interdisciplinary education to students from over 100 countries, focusing on addressing significant societal challenges. With accreditation in both the USA and Austria, the university offers a range of programs in fields such as law, data science, environmental studies, and public policy.