‍

The death of Alexei Navalny is a tragic and unnecessary loss.

Alexei was a prominent Russian opposition leader and a strong advocate for democracy and human rights. His untimely death highlights the challenges faced by those who stand against oppressive regimes and the critical need for continued efforts to promote freedom and justice.

Whether he was organizing anti-government demonstrations or running for office to advocate reforms against corruption in Russia and President Putin and his government, Alexei was a force to be reckoned with as the leader of the Russia of the Future party and founder of the Anti-Corruption Foundation (FBK).

Alexei was also recognized by Amnesty International as a prisoner of conscience – meaning someone imprisoned for the peaceful expression of their beliefs or identity –  and was awarded the Sakharov Prize for his work on human rights in 2021.

In times like these, it becomes even more pertinent for individuals and nations to stand against dictatorships and oppressors and advocate for the principles of democracy, transparency, and human rights.

“Each time a man stands up for an ideal…or strikes out against injustice, he sends forth a tiny ripple of hope…those ripples build a current that can sweep down the mightiest walls of oppression and resistance.”

This quote by Robert Kennedy perfectly symbolizes who Alexei Navalny was – a friend to bravery and freedom and an enemy of oppression and terrorism. He died advocating for a vision that so many of us want: a better future for our countries without corruption.

Navalny’s legacy will live on in countless ways and people. His widow, Yulia Navalnaya, vowed to persist in the fight against the Kremlin.

The world must continue Alexei’s courageous fight against tyranny.