Yulia Navalnaya is Elected Chair of Human Rights Foundation

NEW YORK, NY (July 1, 2024) — The Human Rights Foundation (HRF) is pleased to announce the election of Yulia Navalnaya as its new Chair (ad honorem).

“As someone who has personally witnessed the threat dictatorships pose to our loved ones and the world at large, I am deeply honored to take on the role of Chair of the Human Rights Foundation,” said Yulia Navalnaya. “In these challenging times, defending fundamental rights and freedoms is more crucial than ever. The mission of HRF is close to my heart, and I look forward to helping advance it.”

Yulia Navalnaya, renowned for her unwavering commitment to democratic principles and human rights and for her steadfast support of her husband, the late Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny, brings a wealth of experience and a passionate vision to HRF.

“I believe in term limits. Unlike the dictators that we fight,” said Garry Kasparov, who has chaired HRF since 2012. Kasparov, who endorsed Navalnaya, expressed enthusiastic confidence in her leadership: “I look forward to supporting Yulia and HRF in this new chapter. It has been a privilege to serve as Chairman of the Human Rights Foundation. Yulia’s courage and commitment to justice are inspiring. HRF will continue to thrive and make an ever-growing impact in the fight for human rights.”

“This leadership transition continues HRF’s proud tradition of advocacy under the guidance of notable leaders, following in the footsteps of former chairs Václav Havel and Armando Valladares,” said HRF Chief Executive Thor Halvorssen. “Garry Kasparov has provided exceptional service to HRF and it’s reassuring that his successor can match his energy, courage, and moral authority.”

HRF President Céline Assaf-Boustani also praised the appointment: “We are thrilled to welcome Yulia Navalnaya as our new Chair. Her personal experiences and advocacy work make her uniquely qualified to support HRF. We are grateful to Garry and look forward to building on the many achievements of the last decade.”

The Human Rights Foundation (HRF) is a New York-based nonprofit organization that promotes and protects human rights globally, with a focus on closed societies. Founded in 2005, HRF unites people in the common cause of defending human rights and promoting liberal democracy.

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