Maryja Kalesnikava, a well-known Belarusian opposition figure, was awarded the prestigious Charlemagne Prize at a ceremony held in Aachen, Germany. This award was originally granted to her in 2022 for her efforts during the Belarusian protests but was accepted by her sister Taciana Chomič at that time due to Kalesnikava's imprisonment. Kalesnikava has been a significant symbol of the opposition against the Belarusian government since the widespread protests in 2020, where she became closely associated with fellow opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya.

Kalesnikava's activism has made her a prominent face of the resistance in Belarus. Known for her distinctive short hair and heart gesture, she was often seen at the forefront of protests. Her status further elevated when she bravely resisted deportation by the authorities in September 2020. After being taken to the Ukrainian border, she managed to escape, tore up her passport, and returned to Belarus, where she was promptly arrested again, highlighting the dangers faced by opposition figures in the country.

In 2021, Kalesnikava was sentenced to 11 years in prison on charges that included conspiracy to seize power. During her imprisonment, she has faced severe health issues, underscoring the harsh conditions faced by political prisoners in Belarus. The award recognizes her courage and sacrifice in the struggle for democracy and human rights in Belarus, and her recent receipt of the award in Germany shines a light on the ongoing fight for freedom and justice in her homeland.