Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya to Receive Anna Lindh Prize for Her Courageous Fight for Democracy in Belarus
August 9, 2023 – On the International Day of Solidarity with Belarus, the Anna Lindh Memorial Fund has announced that Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya will be honored with the prestigious Anna Lindh Prize in 2023. This recognition comes three years after the controversial presidential election in Belarus in 2020, which saw Tsikhanouskaya’s husband being imprisoned and ignited a wave of pro-democracy protests.
Lena Hjelm-Wallén, chairman of the Anna Lindh Memorial Fund, spoke about the motivation behind awarding Tsikhanouskaya. She stated, “Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya took on an incomparable responsibility when, at the risk of her own safety, she led the popular pro-democracy protests after her husband was imprisoned. Since then, she has tirelessly continued the fight. Tsikhanouskaya is a symbol of a free and democratic Belarus.”
After the highly contested election, Tsikhanouskaya made the courageous decision to step up and lead the pro-democracy movement in Belarus. Despite facing significant risks to her personal safety, she fearlessly mobilized the people and raised their voices against the authoritarian regime. Tsikhanouskaya’s resilience, determination, and unwavering commitment to democracy have made her a revered figure both in Belarus and around the world.
The Anna Lindh Prize, established in memory of the late Swedish Foreign Minister Anna Lindh, is awarded to individuals or organizations that show exceptional dedication to promoting dialogue, democracy, and human rights. By honoring Tsikhanouskaya with this prestigious award, the Anna Lindh Memorial Fund recognizes her remarkable contribution to the fight for democracy and human rights in Belarus.
“The award is a testament to Tsikhanouskaya’s unwavering courage and relentless pursuit of democratic values,” Hjelm-Wallén added. “She has become an inspiration for countless people who aspire to live in a society where freedom and human rights are protected.”
The announcement of the Anna Lindh Prize on August 9 holds added significance as it marks the International Day of Solidarity with Belarus. This day commemorates the ongoing struggle of the Belarusian people for freedom, justice, and democratic reforms. Tsikhanouskaya’s recognition serves as a beacon of hope for those fighting against oppressive regimes and reaffirms the international community’s support for the people of Belarus.
As the world looks toward the future, Tsikhanouskaya continues to work tirelessly to bring about positive change in Belarus. Her indomitable spirit and unwavering resolve serve as a reminder that the fight for freedom and democracy requires unwavering dedication.
The Anna Lindh Prize will be officially presented to Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya in recognition of her unwavering commitment to democracy during a ceremony in 2023. This honor not only celebrates Tsikhanouskaya’s courage but also amplifies the voices of all the Belarusian people and their ongoing struggle for a free and democratic Belarus.