site.btaBlogger Boyan Yurukov Named Human of the Year 2025

Boyan Yurukov, a blogger, has been named Human of the Year 2025 in the 18th edition of the awards with which the Bulgarian Helsinki Committee (BHC) honours human rights defenders and their contributions to Bulgarian society. Yurukov won the distinction for making publicly accessible the data on over 4,400 state-owned properties planned for sale by the government and for his consistent work in analyzing and publishing public-interest information, the BHC said. The award ceremony was held in Sofia on Thursday.

The BHC said: "It has been a turbulent year, and we received more than 75 eligible nominations." The jury presented 11 awards to individuals, civic groups and organizations that demonstrated commitment, solidarity and sustained efforts in defence of human rights and democratic values, the human rights watchdog said. The 2025 campaign was held in partnership with the Danish Presidency of the European Union.

The ceremony was opened by BHC co-chair Radoslav Stoyanov and Danish Ambassador to Bulgaria Flemming Stender.

Presenting the accolade to Yurukov, BHC co-chair and jury chair Adela Katchaounova said: "Today, the jury is not simply honouring a blogger or an activist. We are honouring the idea that civic courage is a form of service, and that real change begins with awareness and persistence. And one person, with competence, patience and a strong moral compass, can spark that beginning."

Yurukov said it was an honour "to be among people who go out of their way to help others". "I have always worried that knowledge might lead to fear. But looking at this audience and the people in the streets, I now believe otherwise. People act, ask questions, demand accountability, and this creates civic energy and leads to change," he added.

The Human of the Year Awards carry no monetary prize, they are a symbolic recognition of human rights contributions, civic courage and significant achievements.