Professor Norman Davies: “Person of the Year”
“Gazeta Wyborcza” has awarded this year’s title of Person of the Year to Professor Norman Davies, a distinguished historian who for decades has brought the history of Central and Eastern Europe closer to Poles and to the wider world. This distinction is an expression of recognition not only for his scholarly achievements, but also for his commitment to promoting Polish history on the international stage.
“We have decided to honor two figures: Professor Norman Davies, a distinguished British historian who for decades has taught the world about Poland’s complex history. We have also awarded a special prize to the President of Moldova, Maia Sandu, as a tribute to her leadership through which her country is becoming part of a united Europe,” said Bartosz T. Wieliński, deputy editor-in-chief of Gazeta Wyborcza.
Davies, born in 1939 in the United Kingdom, has for many years remained a steadfast advocate of Poland. His books, such as God’s Playground, Europe, and Rising ’44, have offered deeper insight into Poland’s complex history and its role in shaping the fate of the continent.
The ceremony
The ceremony for awarding the title of Gazeta Wyborcza’s 2025 Person of the Year took place today — on Friday, May 16 — at the newspaper’s headquarters in Warsaw. The gala was hosted by Dominika Wielowieyska, journalist for Gazeta Wyborcza and Radio TOK FM, together with Roman Imielski, the paper’s first deputy editor-in-chief.
The title of Gazeta Wyborcza’s Person of the Year has been awarded since 1999. Through it, the editorial board recognizes and honors individuals who work for the development of democracy, promote tolerance, and support the struggle for respect of human rights. To date, the list of laureates has included the founding figures of democratic change in Poland and Central Europe, statesmen, people dedicated to the common good, as well as outstanding artists and writers.
