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Former POW Maxim Butkewitsch Wins Václav Havel Prize for Human Rights Work

From fighting for his country to fighting for human rights, Maxim Butkewitsch's journey is one of empathy and resilience. His work with refugees and displaced persons has earned him the prestigious Václav Havel Prize.

This picture is clicked inside. On the left there is a woman smiling and standing. On the right...
This picture is clicked inside. On the left there is a woman smiling and standing. On the right there is a other woman wearing black color dress, holding an object, standing and seems to be talking and there are two microphones attached to the podium. In the background we can see the banners on which we can see the pictures and the text.

Former POW Maxim Butkewitsch Wins Václav Havel Prize for Human Rights Work

Moscow-based human rights activist Svetlana Gannushkina praises Maxim Butkewitsch's empathy and professionalism in migration issues. Butkewitsch, a former prisoner of war, has dedicated his life to advocating for the rights of foreigners and refugees. He recently received the Václav Havel Prize for his efforts.

Butkewitsch's journey began when he joined the military after the Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022, rising to command a company. After his capture and release in 2024, he returned to his human rights work. He co-founded the Zmina Human Rights Centre in Kyiv and Hromadske Radio. His film project 'Without Borders' highlights the struggles of displaced persons.

Butkewitsch's dedication to Ukraine's defence of fundamental values earned him the Václav Havel Prize. He dedicated the award to Ukrainian prisoners of war and journalists, paying tribute to their plight. He also assisted a woman from Chechnya, securing her a Ukrainian passport and social assistance.

Maxim Butkewitsch's commitment to human rights and advocacy for the marginalized has earned him admiration and accolades. Despite his own experiences as a prisoner of war, he continues to champion the cause of freedom and dignity for all.

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