Press Release, 16.02.2026

Photo: Galina Mikhaleva / Photo by the Yabloko Press Service

The award has been established in memory of human rights defender, Doctor of Political Sciences, and Chair of the Yabloko party’s Gender Faction, Galina Mikhaleva. The 27th of February marks one year since her death.

Galina Mikhaleva was one of the key figures of the Russian women’s human rights movement. Throughout her life, she selflessly promoted the ideas of gender equality in society and worked to protect people from violence and discrimination. In order to perpetuate the memory of Galina Mikhaleva and to recognise those who are continuing her work, Yabloko has established this award.

Applications from individuals and organisations are being accepted until 28 February inclusive, across six categories:

• “Leadership and Public Activity” — to recognise individuals who have demonstrated leadership and achieved changes in the field of gender equality.
• “Civil Initiative / Project” — to recognise initiative groups, campaigns, and projects (including regional ones) aimed at expanding equal opportunities and protecting rights.
• “Organisation / Institution” — to recognise civil society organisations, professional associations, educational and other bodies carrying out systematic work to advance gender equality.
• “Education and Culture” — to recognise authors and collectives working in the fields of education, journalism, research, culture, and media shaping a non-discriminatory agenda.
• “Human Rights Practices” — to recognise human rights efforts and practical assistance (legal, social, and psychological) aimed at protecting those who have suffered from discrimination and violence.

The winners will be selected by a jury comprising:

• Nadezhda Azhgikhina, journalist and writer
• Olga Zdravomyslova, sociologist and Vice-President of the Raisa Maximovna Gorbacheva Club (the Gorbachev Foundation)
• Yulia Ostrovskaya, lawyer and research fellow at the Institute of Sociology of the Russian Academy of Sciences
• Olga Radaeva, First Deputy Chair of the Yabloko party’s Gender Faction
• Nikolai Rybakov, politician and Chair of the Yabloko party
• Olga Shtannikova, politician and human rights defender, MP of the Legislative Assembly of St. Petersburg representing the Yabloko party

The award ceremony for the Galina Mikhaleva Award laureates will take place at the central office of the Yabloko party on 5 March.