One of the founders of the All Burma Federation of Student Unions (ABFSU), Min Ko Naing is a leading figure in the Burmese pro-democracy movement.

While a student at the University of Rangoon, he was part of a performing troupe that satirized Burma's military government and attracted the attention of intelligence agents. He and other students secretly founded the ABFSU in the 1980s while student unions were illegal.

Using a pseudonym that means "Conqueror of Kings," Min Ko Naing emerged as a leader of the nationwide non-violent uprising, in which millions marched throughout Burma demanding democracy and an end to decades-long military rule.

The Burmese army responded with violent suppression. Min Ko Naing went underground, where he continued his organizing work but was eventually arrested. He spent 15 years in prison, most of it in complete solitary confinement.  

The military released Min Ko Naing in November 2004 in response to international pressure.

He then helped found the 88 Generation Students Group, a reference to a general strike on 8-8-88 that is considered a turning point in the Burmese democracy movement.

Min Ko Naing was represented at the Civil Courage Prize ceremony by Bo Kyi, a long-time colleague and founder of the assistance Association for Political Prisoners, an organization that documents and disseminates information on the situation of political prisoners in Burma.