GENEVA, SWITZERLAND — Margarita Mikhneva, a pioneering figure in Bulgarian investigative journalism, has passed away at the age of 72 following a prolonged battle with cancer. Her death in Geneva was confirmed by Focus news agency, marking the end of an era for Bulgarian media.
Born on April 21, 1952, in Sofia, Mikhneva’s life was characterized by an unwavering commitment to uncovering the truth.
She graduated from Sofia State University in 1974 with a law degree but soon pivoted toward journalism, a field where her relentless pursuit of justice would leave an indelible mark.
Her career began in 1975 with Bulgarian National Television (BNT), where she made her debut as an editor and host for the Second Program (Efir 2). Mikhneva quickly gained prominence for her incisive and fearless reporting, especially during some of Bulgaria’s most tumultuous times.
One of her earliest investigative reports catapulted her into the public eye, setting the tone for a career defined by tenacity and courage.
However, it was her coverage of the 1989 “revival process”—a controversial campaign involving the forced assimilation of Bulgaria’s Turkish minority—that solidified her reputation.
Mikhneva documented the ethnic cleansing along the Bulgarian-Turkish border, producing groundbreaking reports that exposed the grim realities of the era.
Between 1992 and 1999, Mikhneva penned the influential “Conflicts” column, further cementing her status as a bold voice in Bulgarian journalism.
Over the years, she worked with several prominent Bulgarian TV networks, including bTV and Nova TV, becoming one of the country’s most recognized journalistic figures.
Mikhneva’s commitment to truth often placed her at odds with those in power. In a 2014 interview with BNT, she described her work as “a deadly battle with power,” a sentiment that reflected her fearless approach to holding authority to account.
Her contributions did not go unnoticed. Following her death, Bulgarian President Rumen Radev expressed his condolences, lauding her pivotal role in shaping the country’s journalistic landscape during its transition from communism.
“Margarita Mikhneva was a symbol of free journalism during Bulgaria’s transformative years,” President Radev said. “Her professionalism and steadfast dedication to protecting the public interest set an example for future generations of journalists.”
Mikhneva’s investigative reports tackled corruption, social injustices, and abuses of power, often in environments fraught with political tension. Her work resonated deeply with audiences, making her a trusted and respected figure in Bulgaria’s media community.
Despite her battle with cancer in later years, Mikhneva remained a towering figure in journalism. Her contributions continue to inspire young journalists to uphold the principles of integrity and accountability.
Mikhneva’s passing is a profound loss for Bulgaria and for investigative journalism as a whole. Her legacy endures in the stories she told and the truths she unearthed, leaving an imprint that will guide future generations in their pursuit of justice and transparency.
She is survived by her family, friends, and countless admirers who mourn the loss of one of Bulgaria’s most courageous and influential voices.