Myanmar human rights activist and Assistance Association for Political Prisoners (AAPP) co-founder U Bo Kyi has been named one of the three recipients of the 2026 Ramon Magsaysay Award, widely regarded as Asia’s premier honour, Inquirer.net reported.
U Bo Kyi shares the 68th Ramon Magsaysay Award with veteran Singaporean diplomat Tommy Koh and Bangladeshi social entrepreneur Runa Khan. The laureates were announced on 31 August in Manila, coinciding with the 119th birth anniversary of former Philippine President Ramon Magsaysay.
U Bo Kyi co-founded the AAPP, which provides assistance to political prisoners and their families while documenting arrests and abuses against political detainees. He was recognised for his longstanding work advocating for political prisoners and human rights.
The award is often described as the “Nobel Prize of Asia” and recognises individuals and organisations for outstanding service and contributions to communities across the region. The 2026 award ceremony is scheduled for 15 November at the Metropolitan Theater in Manila.
