News

Belarusian Regime Labels Comedian as a “Terrorist” for Joking About LukaSHenka

Feb 04, 2024

The Belarusian security service, KGB, has added stand-up comedian Slava Kamisaranka to its list of individuals accused of “terrorist activities.” The decision was made on February 4 following a trial in absentia, which resulted in a six-year prison sentence for the comedian.

In December 2024, Kamisaranka was convicted of defamation, insulting Lukashenka, and “inciting hatred”—charges based on his satirical performances about the Belarusian leader. He was forced to leave Russia in 2021 after facing threats of persecution from the Belarusian regime.

Kamisaranka is currently on a European tour, continuing to perform despite the regime’s repression. The fact that humor is treated as a crime by the de facto occupied Belarusian authorities highlights the extent of their efforts to silence dissent.

According to the human rights organization Viasna, there are now 1,234 people on the KGB’s “terrorist list,” more than 500 of whom are Belarusians. 


Source: People's Embassies of Belarus

Belarusians Abroad Protest Against the Sham Elections in Belarus 

Feb 03, 2024

On January 26th 2025, so-called “presidential elections” were held in Belarus, during which Lukashenko once again illegally seized power.

The electoral commissions were made up exclusively of regime supporters, and independent observation was banned; the results of these “elections” were predetermined and known in advance. 

Around 2 million Belarusians living abroad have been denied the right to vote. To participate in the elections, they were told they had to return to Belarus.

In response, protests and demonstrations against the sham elections took place in numerous cities and countries around the world. 

The "Lukashenka in the Shredder" campaign, organized by the People’s Embassies of Belarus, was held in Ljubljana, Warsaw, Nice, Tel Aviv, Sacramento, Tallinn, Bologna, Cologne, Stockholm, Austria (Vienna, Graz, Klagenfurt), London, Charlotte. Members of the Coordination Council also joined the initiative.

In Vilnius, Brussels, and Philadelphia protestors symbolically shredded ballot papers featuring Lukashenko’s  image.

In Warsaw, during a march, Belarusians carried an enormous 330-meter-long white-red-white flag through the streets of the city.

Protests and events also took place in Kiev, Vilnius, Chicago, Prague, Wroclaw, Klaipeda, Bialystok, Riga, Switzerland, Lublin, Berlin, and many other cities and countries worldwide. 

Thanks to each and every one of you who refuses to give up and keeps fighting - the voices of Belarusians abroad are loud and unignorable!

They resonate in democratic countries, strengthening international support. They inspire and uplift free-spirited Belarusians inside Belarus, keeping the whope for change alive. And they strike fear into the regime and its enablers, serving as a reminder that justice is inevitable. 

Long live Belarus! 


Source: Belarusians Abroad

PACE unanimously adopted a resolution on Belarus

Jan 31, 2024

The Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE) held a debate on "The urgent need for free and fair elections in Belarus." Following the discussions, PACE unanimously adopted a resolution on non-recognition of the latest presidential elections in Belarus.

“The so-called elections organised in Belarus on 26 January 2025 do not meet the minimum international standards for democratic elections and lack any democratic credibility, and there are no grounds for recognising the legitimacy of Aliaksandr Lukashenka as president,” the PACE said today at the end of an urgent debate on ‘The urgent need for free and fair elections in Belarus’.

The Assembly therefore called on Council of Europe member States to reject the legitimacy of these elections, “to make clear their non-recognition of the election of Aliaksandr Lukashenka to the post of President of Belarus” and “take decisive steps to broaden and intensify targeted sanctions against the regime and those who support its unlawful activities.”

The resolution adopted, based on the report prepared by Ryszard Petru (Poland, ALDE), also calls on member States to “continue and intensify support for the structures of the Belarusian democratic forces,” led by Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, “maintain and expand efforts to investigate human rights abuses” and “actively support mechanisms that ensure accountability for those responsible”, as well as “explore measures to facilitate entry and stay in safe and dignified conditions” for Belarusian citizens who flee the Lukashenka regime.

The Assembly welcomed the establishment of a representative delegation of Belarusian democratic forces to the PACE, present today in the hemicycle. Addressing the parliamentarians, Angelika Melnikova, member of the delegation and Speaker of the Coordination Council, said this was “a crucial motivation for us and a clear signal of your support to all of us in our struggle for freedom”.

She recalled that there are “over 1 200 political prisoners, at least seven of whom have been tortured to death; all eleven opposition parties have been outlawed; more than 1 800 NGOs and all independent media have been liquidated; at least 300 000 Belarusians have been forced into exile and all our citizens abroad are now deprived of their voting rights”.

“Democracy will prevail only when justice is served. The Belarusian people are a European nation. Our history and culture are an integral part of Europe's historical heritage. But it's equally important for us to be a part of Europe's future”, she concluded.


Source: Human Rights Center "Viasna" 

Countries and international organizations that do not recognize the 2025 sham election in Belarus

Jan 30, 2024

On January 26, Belarus witnessed yet another political farce designed to “re-elect” “Lukashenka. For over 30 years, he has clung to power by sustaining a regime built on mass repression and human rights violations. Following the rigged 2020 election and the brutal crackdown on peaceful protests, the regime in Belarus lost its legitimacy not only among Belarusians but also within the international community. As a result, the January 26 sham election is just another occasion for democratic countries and international organizations to condemn the regime.

Below is a list of countries and organizations that have officially rejected the so-called “election” (the list is relevant as of 14:00 GMT, January 30, and will be updated):

🌍 Countries:

🏢 International organizations, institutions, and political figures:

Kaja Kallas, High Representative of the EU for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Vice President of the European Commission.


Source: Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya

For the First Time, a Delegation of the Coordination Council Participated in a PACE Session 

Jan 30, 2024

Last week, a delegation from the Coordination Council of Belarus took part in the session of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE). The primary objective during the first days was to establish bilateral cooperation with all political groups within PACE.

The delegates held meetings with SOC – Socialists, Democrats, and Greens, EPP/CD – the European People’s Party Group, EC/DA – the European Conservatives and Democratic Alliance Group, ALDE – the Alliance of Liberals and Democrats for Europe, and UEL – the Group of the Unified European Left.

During these meetings, Coordination Council Speaker and member of the “Latushka Team and the Movement ‘For Freedom’” faction, Anzhalika Melnikava, emphasized the importance of democratic changes in Belarus to ensure genuine regional security and achieve peace in the region. She also noted that the Coordination Council, as a representative body of democratic forces and civil society, would contribute to the work of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe in achieving this goal by utilizing the tools available within PACE.

The leader of the “Latushka Team and the Movement ‘For Freedom’” faction, Pavel Latushka, highlighted a key priority during his presentation—the necessity for Council of Europe member states and their parliaments to assist in holding Lukashenka accountable through the mechanisms of the International Criminal Court for crimes against humanity committed against the Belarusian people.

The PACE session was also attended by the head of the delegation, Aliaksandra Mamaeva (“European Choice”), Margaryta Vorykhava (“Youth Offensive”), Valer Matskevich (“European Choice”), and Pavel Terashkovich (“Our Cause / Belarusian Christian Democrats”). 


Source: Coordination Council

Elections*2025. Analytical report on the results of monitoring the election campaigning

Jan 29, 2024

The expert election* 2025 observation mission was organized by the Belarusian Helsinki Committee and the Viasna Human Rights Center as part of the "Human Rights Defenders for Free Elections" campaign. The mission collects and analyzes information about the election campaign based on open sources and messages from voters from Belarus.

CONCLUSIONS

Files


Source: Human Rights Center "Viasna" 

Human rights situation in Belarus in 2024

Jan 28, 2024

Summary:


Source: Human Rights Center "Viasna" 

“Isolate Lukashenka but support Belarusians”

Jan 28, 2024

Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya addressed the foreign ministers of the EU member states in Brussels at the invitation of the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs, Kaja Kallas. The EU Commissioner for Enlargement, Marta Kos, also joined the meeting. The discussion focused on the non-recognition of Lukashenka and his sham election, peaceful negotiations on Ukraine, visa and legalization of stay issues, as well as support for Belarus’ civil society and democratic forces.

Kaja Kallas and Marta Kos issued a statement on behalf of the EU, rejecting the “election” and Lukashenka’s legitimacy. Individual statements were also made by over 15 EU countries, and a joint statement was released by the Nordic-Baltic Eight (NB8).

In her speech, Ms. Tsikhanouskaya called for:

📌 Ensuring that any peace negotiations on Ukraine include the withdrawal of Russian troops from Belarus and non-interference by Russia in Belarusian affairs, to prevent Belarus from becoming a “consolation prize” for Russia. Lukashenka represents Russian, not Belarusian, interests.

📌 Mobilizing all political and diplomatic efforts to secure the release of political prisoners. Strengthening pressure and sanctions to halt repression.

📌 Expanding and tightening sanctions against organizations providing military support to Russia or financing repression.

📌 Introducing a sanctions package targeting perpetrators of human rights violations, including judges, propagandists, security officials, and bureaucrats responsible for repression and organizing the “election”.

📌 Increasing support for independent media, human rights defenders, civil society, victims of repression, their families, and cultural initiatives.

📌 Supporting the International Humanitarian Fund and the International Accountability Platform for Belarus. 

📌 Providing travel documents for Belarusians who cannot extend the validity of their passports. Simplifying visa and residency procedures for Belarusians and considering recognition of the New Belarusian Passport.

📌 Supporting Lithuania’s referral of the Lukashenka regime’s crimes to the International Criminal Court.

📌 Demonstrating to Belarusians that Europe offers an alternative to the “Russian world” by including democratic Belarus in Eastern Partnership programs.

During the meeting, the foreign ministers expressed their support for the Belarusian people and democratic forces, emphasized the need for a principled stance on Belarus, and highlighted the importance of distinguishing Belarus from Russia.

Foreign ministers in attendance included:

🇱🇹 Lithuania – Kęstutis Budrys;
🇵🇱 Poland – Radosław Sikorski;
🇸🇪 Sweden – Maria Malmer Stenergard;
🇳🇱 Netherlands – Caspar Veldkamp;
🇱🇻 Latvia – Baiba Braže;
🇮🇪 Ireland – Simon Harris;
🇧🇪 Belgium – Bernard Quintin;
🇪🇪 Estonia – Margus Tsahkna.

Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya: “We are deeply grateful to Kaja Kallas, the European External Action Service, the European Commission, and all ministers for their consistent policies vis-a-vis Belarus and support for the Belarusian people. I am confident that Belarus can and will become a success story, a reliable ally, partner, and neighbor for the EU”.


Source: Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya

“We will reclaim our country and return home!”

Jan 26, 2024

A march took place in Warsaw against the sham election in Belarus. Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya walked through the city streets together with other Belarusians before delivering a speech. She emphasized the unwavering determination of the Belarusian people in their fight for freedom and called for unity.

“What is happening in Belarus today has been called many names – farce, comedy, special operation.

I believe one of the most fitting descriptions is mockery. A mockery of the electoral process and the very idea of an election. A mockery of the Belarusian people and the international community.

We already said a firm ‘no’ to him four years ago. And today, in response to his sham charade, we can only repeat it.

As long as we are united, we can overcome anything. We are all Belarusians. We will not lose heart. We will reclaim our country and return home.

Long Live Belarus!”

During Ms. Tsikhanouskaya’s speech, march participants observed a moment of silence to honor all Belarusian volunteer fighters who were killed by Russia in Ukraine and political prisoners who lost their lives at the hands of the regime in Belarus.


Source: Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya

A historic day for democratic Belarus

Jan 22, 2024

The adoption by the Senate of the Republic of Poland of the Resolution on the issue of unfair elections in Belarus is an event that will go down in the history of our country and the struggle of our people and the democratic forces representing them for freedom and democracy.

For the first time in our modern history, the upper house of the national parliament of a foreign state — the Senate of Poland — has recognized the representative body of the Belarusian democratic forces — the Coordination Council — as the Belarusian parliament in exile.

This is already a recorded fact. And this fact, this event will be included in the history books of democratic Belarus.

In addition, by this Resolution the Senate of Poland declares its readiness to cooperate with representatives of the Coordination Council.

For me personally, there is no better answer to all those who have chosen the path of struggle not against Lukashenko’s dictatorship, but against the institutions of the Belarusian democratic forces created, operating and recognized by democratic countries.

At the same time, for all of us, representatives of the Coordination Council, the United Transitional Cabinet and other organizations and structures of the Belarusian democratic forces and civil society, this event should become a huge motivation to continue the active struggle for freedom and democracy in Belarus, to develop and strengthen our institutions, their recognition and influence on the international stage.

And we are already doing this and achieving serious success. Previously, the Coordination Council, as a representative body, was recognized as a partner for cooperation by the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe. And in the near future, the delegation of the Coordination Council, of which I have the honor to be a member, will go to Strasbourg for the first session of PACE on January 27-31, to also represent Belarus at such a high level for the first time in history.

I congratulate my colleagues in the Coordination Council and the entire democratic movement on these important events in our history, which we are creating together. I don’t want to sound pretentious, but we really have a historic mission and we are obliged to lead our struggle to achieve our common goal – a free, democratic and European Belarus.

Long live Belarus!


Source: NAM

Lithuania extended entry ban exemptions for Belarusian-registered vehicles

Jan 18, 2024

Lithuania indefinitely extended exemptions for Belarusian-registered vehicles. The new regulations allow Belarusians with visas or residence permits to enter the country using their cars. Entry is also allowed for EU citizens driving Belarusian-registered cars provided the vehicles are only for personal use.

Legal entities and Belarusian citizens intending to use vehicles for commercial purposes must re-register the vehicles and obtain Lithuanian plates. Violations of these regulations will result in fines and vehicle confiscation.

Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya: “We are grateful to the Lithuanian government for considering our proposals and easing the restrictions. It is crucial for us to maintain passenger connections between Lithuania and Belarus, as well as people-to-people contacts. We must remember that isolation should target the regime, not the people”.

Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya’s Advisor on Constitutional Reform and Parliamentary Cooperation, Anatoli Liabedzka: “Our cooperation with the Lithuanian Seimas, Speaker Skvernelis, and the parliamentary group ‘For a Democratic Belarus’ has yielded results. While this is an interim decision, it allows us to continue consultations with the Lithuanian side”.


Source: Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya

Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya discussed political prisoners’ situation with US Deputy Secretary of State Kurt Campbell

Jan 17, 2024

On January 16, Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya held a phone call with the US Deputy Secretary of State, Kurt Campbell.

The discussion focused on the recent updates regarding the situation of political prisoners in Belarus and possible steps to facilitate their release.

In addition, the parties discussed:

📌 Continued Strategic Dialogue between Belarus’ democratic forces and the United States;

📌 Collaboration with the new US administration;

📌 Expanded international cooperation;

📌 Exchanges and scholarships for Belarusians.


Source: Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya

New Belarusian Passport: FAQ

Jan 15, 2024

The democratic forces intend to present the New Belarusian Passport at the “Belarusians Deserve Better” event in Warsaw on January 26. However, the answers to the most frequently asked questions about the project are already available, including who will produce the passports, how much they will cost, and whether foreign states will recognize them.

📌 Will foreign states recognize the passport?

“We’ve just received samples from the Passport Center. Without these, we couldn’t start negotiations on the passport’s status. There is significant interest from foreign politicians. We’ve already spoken with several ministers, and additional legal justification is now underway. The Passport Center has sent samples to all European countries”.

📌 What about data protection?

“The Belarus Passport Center will ensure data security. Everything will be implemented to the highest international standards. Access to personal data will be strictly limited, ensuring that no one, including representatives of the regime, can find out whether someone holds a passport or not”.

📌 Who will produce the passports?

“We have found a printing solution and are truly grateful to the Lithuanian government for their support and consultations. Personalization and final printing will be handled directly by the Passport Center, while materials and blanks will be sourced from contractors”.

📌 How much will the passport cost?

“The processing fee for the passport will be €97. This covers the minimum required for document production, verification, printing, equipment rental, data storage, and the operation of the document submission center”.

Find out about the application process, required documents, and travel opportunities with the passport in the full interview with Marius Gudelaitis, who is in charge of the project.

🔗 Official website of the New Belarusian Passport


Source: Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya

The Netherlands will not recognize the sham election in Belarus

Jan 15, 2024

On the first day of her visit to The Hague, Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya met with members of the Dutch government, civil society, and experts.

📌 With the Prime Minister, Dirk Schoof, the Belarusian leader discussed the non-recognition of the Lukashenka regime and the January 26 sham election. The Prime Minister assured Ms. Tsikhanouskaya that the Netherlands’ policy will remain consistent and principled.

📌 With the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Caspar Veldkamp, Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya talked about:

📌 Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya’s meeting with NGOs at the Helsinki Committee’s Office focused on:

📌 Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya and international affairs experts from the Clingendael Institute discussed:

Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya: “I am glad that the Netherlands maintains a principled stance on Belarus and is committed to supporting Belarusians. It is crucial that the government distinguishes between the regime and the Belarusian people, as well as between Belarus and Russia. We must not be lumped together. The Netherlands will not recognize the January 26 ‘election’, will continue supporting our journalists and civil society, and will ensure that Belarus remains a priority on the EU agenda”.


Source: Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya

United Transitional Cabinet signed the Memorandum of Understanding with the Community of Democracies

Jan 11, 2024

During her visit to Warsaw, Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, representing the United Transitional Cabinet, signed the Memorandum of Understanding with the Community of Democracies, represented by Secretary General Mantas Adomėnas.

“Dear Secretary General Adomenas, 

Dear Excellencies, and friends,

It is a great honor to stand here today among allies who share the same values and dreams. 

In this room, I know I am among friends — friends united by our belief in democracy, security, and human dignity.

One day Belarus will join the Community of Democracies as a free, democratic, and European country. But Belarusians, as a people, already belong here. 

We are fighting for the same ideals that this Community was built upon. We are standing against autocracy, and together, we are proving that democracy is worth every sacrifice.

It was a true honor to sign the memorandum of understanding between the United Transitional Cabinet of Belarus and the Community of Democracies. It is not just a symbolic gesture. It is a step toward returning Belarus to the path of democracy, human rights, and justice.

I know, this is a non-conventional step for the Community as well. But we live in non-conventional times. Such times need non-conventional solutions, and they need brave leaders.

One of those who stood behind the idea of the Community of Democracies was Madeleine Albright. She is my personal hero. But also I can call her a mentor. At the very beginning of my accidental political career, I was lucky to meet her. We were sitting and chatting, about politics, freedom, and women. It was her, who inspired me to continue my fight and stay strong, before all challenges. I saw a powerful woman, who wants to make the world a better and safer place, and I see her as an example. 

Today, I want to thank the whole team of the Community of Democracies, of course, Mantas Adomenas, and Miloslawa Zagloba. Thank you for bringing new life to this organization. 

It’s so symbolic that we meet in Warsaw – a city that knows the price of freedom like no other. Poland’s journey to freedom is an inspiration to all of us. I want to thank my Polish friends, especially the representatives of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs; Ambassador Adam Halaciński, the special envoy to democratic Belarus; the Polish Senate and Sejm; experts and journalists, and steadfast allies like Michał Kamiński — a true friend of all freedom fighters.

And of course, a big “thank you” to all diplomats and ambassadors representing their countries — for standing up for what is right.

As dictators unite, we must stand united too. As dictators learn from each other, so must we. Fighting one tyranny means fighting all of them. 

Dictators hate democracy because it is resilient, inclusive, and successful. Dictators hate democracy because it is a threat to their existence. And dictators can not be appeased, or reeducated. They must be confronted. And it’s high time for democracies to show their teeth. 

Dear friends,

The first point of the Warsaw Declaration speaks about “the right of citizens to choose their representatives through regular, free and fair elections.”

Change of power is the foundation of every democracy. Unfortunately, Belarusians have been deprived of this for 31 years. In two weeks, the dictator will organize another farce, called elections, which looks more like a military operation. 

With no alternative candidates allowed, no campaign, no counting of votes, no observers, or monitoring. But with a lot of soldiers and police. The only question is what number the dictator will write in the final protocol. 

Being here, I want to ask all your countries to reject this farce. Lukashenka is an illegitimate dictator, who seized the country, dragged Belarus into the war, and has been selling it to Russia, piece by piece. And all this takes place against the will of the Belarusian people. He must be isolated, not legitimized.

Belarusians already made their choice in 2020, rejected dictatorship, and voted for democratic forces. Having a mandate from the Belarusian people, the democratic forces of Belarus have formed alternative institutions of power, the United Transitional Cabinet, as a government in waiting, and the proto-parliament – Coordination Council.

These institutions represent Belarusian society and the will of Belarusian people, not the illegitimate regime in Minsk. We are united, we defend the interests of the Belarusian people, and we answer their needs. We support Ukraine, and our people on the ground.

We also build coalitions. We have formalized our relationship with the Council of Europe, by creating a formal Contact Group. We have launched Strategic dialogues with the United States, United Kingdom, and Canada, and signed a memorandum with the European Parliament, and today, with the Community of Democracies.

We believe that there will be a new window of opportunity for Belarus. We don’t know how and when it will happen, but we know this: all dictatorships crumble in the end. 

Perhaps we will have to go through the Round Table, as Poland once did. And when that happens, we need to be strong, and we will need the support of the free world to turn Belarus towards democracy.

We are already working on reforms and drafting a new Constitution to ensure that when change comes, it will be irreversible. I hope the Community of Democracies, like the Council of Europe, can support us with their expertise.

We also need to prepare professionals for a new Belarus, and we encourage our partners to support internships, scholarships, and exchanges. We want to learn from your experiences, especially from countries that have transitioned to democracy, such as Moldova, Chile, Portugal, Romania, North Macedonia, Poland, and, of course, Lithuania.

We also rely on your support in restoring justice in Belarus. It is not enough to release our political prisoners—of whom there are more than 1,300. We must also make sure that all perpetrators are held accountable. Therefore, we ask you to support Lithuania in its referral to the International Criminal Court against the Belarus regime for crimes against humanity. The sense of impunity must end.

We also ask to appoint special envoys to Belarusian democratic forces, as Poland, Lithuania, France, Norway, Estonia, Sweden and many other countries have already done. Organize events and discussions on Belarus and democracy in your embassies. Invite us to your capitals and international events, so the voice of Belarusians will be heard.

Support our independent media, like Belsat, Zerkalo, or Nasha Niva, who deliver truth and fight disinformation. Help our human rights defenders and the repressed. Recently, with the support of Norway, Sweden, and Denmark, we have launched the International Humanitarian Fund for victims of repression, and we ask other countries to join too.

Supporting Belarus is not a charity. It is an investment in democracy and freedom worldwide. 

Dear friends,

Another thing I learned from Madeleine Albright, is that no fight can be won alone. To win, you need allies.

And we as Belarusians are happy to have such determined and principled allies as you. I am sure that together we can make the world a better place, for us, and our children.

Thank you very much“.


Source: Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya

Employee of the EU delegation in Belarus sentenced to 4 years in a penal colony

Jan 11, 2025

At the end of December, 41-year-old Mikalai Khila was convicted in Minsk. He was found guilty under two articles: Part 1 of Article 130 of the Criminal Code (incitement of other social hatred or hostility) and Part 3 of Article 361 of the Criminal Code (calls for sanctions). Judge Alena Ananich sentenced Mikalai to four years of imprisonment, writes Politico.

Mikalai is a Protestant preacher at the Evangelical Christian Baptist Church Dabravestsie, as well as an employee of the EU delegation to Belarus. He was detained on October 24, 2023. According to the official representative of the EU, the detention took place near the building of the EU delegation by employees of the Belarusian KGB.


Source: Human Rights Center "Viasna" 

Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya met with Poland’s President Andrzej Duda

Jan 11, 2024

Andrzej Duda welcomed Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya and members of the United Transitional Cabinet at the Belweder Palace. The meeting was attended by the Deputy Head of the Cabinet, Pavel Latushka, the Acting Representative for National Revival, Pavel Barkouski, the Chief of Staff, Valery Matskevich, the Deputy Representative for Power Transition, Artsiom Brukhan, and the Coordination Council Speaker, Anzhalika Melnikava.

Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya: “We are united by Europe and freedom, by the desire to live in safety and peace… and today, we are united by shared pain. This includes our hero, Andrzej Poczobut, and other political prisoners. We must fight until each and every one of them is free, until we can all come back home safely”.

President Duda expressed his support for the Belarusian people and wished for a political change in Belarus to bring freedom, sovereignty, and democracy back to the country as soon as possible.

In his speech, Andrzej Duda highlighted the escalating repression ahead of the sham election. He emphasized the recent sentencing of Father Henrykh (Henadz) Akalatovich to 11 years in prison, noting that this case is yet another symbol of the challenges faced in today’s Belarus.

President Duda reaffirmed his unwavering support for a free and independent Belarus:

“Although my term is nearing its end, I will always remain a friend of a free and independent Belarus. You can always count on my support, wherever I may be”.


Source: Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya

Human rights situation in Belarus. December 2024

Jan 09, 2024

Summary:

Politically motivated prosecution. Political prisoners

On December 10, Sviatlana Krutsikava committed suicide. She could not withstand politically motivated pressure, including arrests for distributing “extremist materials,” according to Dissident.by.

In December, a minimum of 759 cases of politically motivated repressions (detentions, searches, etc.) stemming from criminal and administrative prosecution were recorded. The wave of harassment against the LGBTQ+ community has been on the rise in recent months. The wave of arrests and intimidation related to the upcoming election, pressure on relatives of political prisoners, raids, and detentions also continued.

In December, the results of the criminal prosecution for November were summarized. The courts considered at least 152 criminal cases, including 8 in special proceedings in the absence of the accused. 41 women were convicted, and half of the defendants (78 people) were convicted by the courts of Minsk city. The Brest Region was the most repressive among the provinces.

Since 2020, at least 7,759 individuals have been subjected to politically motivated criminal prosecution, and at least 6,553 people have received politically motivated convictions.

58 people were identified as political prisoners in December. As of December 31, a total of 1,265 political prisoners were being held in detention facilities, including 168 women. At least 190 political prisoners have serious health problems.

In December, dozens of political prisoners were released after completing their sentences. Also, 49 political prisoners were pardoned last month, and information about them was only partially disclosed in pro-government media.

Upon release, political prisoners continue to face persecution.

Iryna Palianina was administratively convicted for “receiving foreign gratuitous aid” (Article 24.15 of the Administrative Violations Code). Andrei Tolchyn, who was released on a pardon in September, is currently facing administrative prosecution for the “distribution of extremist materials” (Article 19.11 of the Administrative Violations Code). Aliaksandr Patapau has been held administratively liable for the third time within three months for the “distribution of extremist materials.” Andrei Aliashkevich was tried for “violating parole rules” (Article 25.11 of the Administrative Violations Code).

Political prisoners are subjected to various forms of pressure, including transfers to high-security prisons. Such reports appeared regarding Yahor Lebiadok, Akikhira Hajeuski-Khanada, Aliaksei Navahrodski, and Mikalai Masharski. Other prisoners are confined to a secure housing unit (SHU), such as Uladzimir Kniha and Mikita Starazhenka. Some prisoners are placed in punishment cells, including Dzianis Ivashyn and Andrei Navitski, where they are subjected to inhumane detention conditions.

The repeated placement of inmates in punitive cells and secure housing units frequently leads to the filing of additional criminal charges against political prisoners. They are persecuted for persistent disobedience to the prison administration (Article 411 of the Criminal Code). The charges are based on the totality of previous disciplinary penalties. In December, these charges were brought against political prisoner Elisei Kuzniatsou and against Uladzimir Kniha, who has been held incommunicado. Ihar Karnei, a political prisoner, has been sentenced to an additional eight months of imprisonment.

According to the available information, political prisoners Andrei Navitski (since April 2024) and Mikalai Bankou (since December 2023) have been held in the incommunicado regime without any contact with the outside world. In the current conditions, this is a form of torture and contains signs of enforced disappearance. This form of pressure is also applied to Mikalai Statkevich, Maksim Znak, Ihar Losik, Siarhei Tsikhanouski, Viktar Babaryka, Aliaksandr Frantskevich, and Uladzimir Kniha. Maria Kalesnikava remains in incommunicado mode after her father’s visit interrupted more than 600 days of no communication with the outside world and no information about her. 

Persecution of human rights defenders

On the occasion of Human Rights Day, Viasna prepared an article about the forms of persecution of human rights defenders in Belarus: equating human rights activism with extremism, politically motivated prosecution, criminalization of volunteer work, and assistance to victims of human rights violations.

Maria Rabkova and Andrei Chapiuk have been held captive for a period exceeding four years in connection with their human rights activities. Similarly, Nobel Peace Prize laureates Ales Bialiatski, Valiantsin Stefanovic, and Uladzimir Labkovich have been behind bars for over three years. Nasta Loika, a human rights activist working with Human Constanta, has spent two years in prison. Vital Chopik, who was convicted for attending courts in politically motivated cases, has been in captivity for more than half a year.

Lack of fair trial in politically motivated cases

During the month of December, up to 150 politically motivated sentences were handed down. Belarusian courts persist in their role as instruments of repression, issuing politically motivated sentences and disregarding allegations of torture and ill-treatment of defendants. 

For instance, on December 23, the Viciebsk Regional Court sentenced Aliaksandr Randarenka, who had been accused of defamation and severely beaten during detention, to four years of imprisonment. The court’s press release does not indicate any instance of mistreatment of the detainee.

Judicial appeals remain ineffective. Appeals courts uphold politically motivated convictions; challenging a conviction on appeal can significantly increase the sentence.

The Belarusian authorities continue to actively use special and in absentia procedures to prosecute pro-democracy activists and opponents of the authorities. 

For example, a criminal case against politician Vadzim Prakopieu was opened for the third time under special proceedings. Uladzimir Ramanenka’s libel trial in absentia was held in closed session.

On December 16, European Union sanctions were imposed on 11 Belarusian judges for politically motivated rulings: Vera Filanchuk, Iryna Pradun, Vital Sinila, Vadzim Mazol, Nina Shastak, Iryna Maiko, Vasil Biahun, Yauhen Brehan, Aliaksandr Mokharau, Alesia Osipava and Viktar Novik were included in the sanctions list

There has been no let-up in the pressure on lawyers who defend people facing politically motivated charges. 141 lawyers were reportedly disbarred for political reasons. At least 88 lawyers faced politically motivated harassment, and at least 23 faced arbitrary detention. Six lawyers are imprisoned on politically motivated charges: Maksim Znak, Aliaksandr Danilevich, Anastasiya Lazarenka, Vital Brahinets, Yuliya Yurhilevich, and Aliaksei Barodka.

The aforementioned EU sanctions also affected the leadership of the Bar Association: “In his role as Chairman of the Belarusian Republican Bar Association, Aliaksei Shvakau has been leading and shaping the Belarusian Republican Bar Association policy of systemic repression against lawyers who represent clients in politically motivated cases or who speak out against abuses by the Lukashenko regime. In his former role as chairman of the Minsk City Bar Association, he also targeted lawyers representing clients in politically motivated cases. He is therefore responsible for the repression of civil society and democratic opposition and activities that undermine the rule of law in Belarus.”

Torture, cruel, inhuman, degrading treatment 



On December 3, the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, Viasna reminded that at least 11 political prisoners with disabilities are imprisoned in Belarus. Aliaksandr Kisel, who psychiatrists have monitored since he was born, has a disability. He was sent for compulsory treatment in a psychiatric hospital. Aksana Liaushova has a medical condition that restricts her mobility and renders her unable to move independently. She was sentenced to two years in a correctional facility. Architect Aliaksei Paretski, artist Kanstantsin Prusau (cousin of Siarhei Franchuk, representative of the Kastus Kalinouski Regiment), and Uladzimir Hundar (activist and local historian from Baranavičy, who is missing a leg) are living with disabilities. The latter was sentenced to 20 years in prison. In 2024, a series of pardons resulted in the release of several individuals with disabilities.

Since 2020, Viasna human rights defenders have registered more than 1,850 survivors of torture and other prohibited treatment. Human rights defenders persist in urging the documentation of torture and other severe human rights violations in Belarus to ensure accountability and bring those responsible for arbitrary repression to justice. In a video by Viasna, Yaraslau, sentenced to three years of restricted freedom for taking part in Belarus’s largest protest march, shared his experiences of torture and ill-treatment during his detention on August 9-10, 2020, as well as during subsequent detentions in 2021-2022.

Prolonged confinement in SHU or punishment cells continues to be used as a form of pressure on political prisoners, with disciplinary measures being imposed one after another. Prisoners are usually kept in poorly heated and lit rooms, completely alone and isolated. According to reports from December, political prisoner Mikalai Bankou had been held in a punishment cell for nine months and in incommunicado mode for a year. Extended detention in a punitive isolation cell under current conditions—without access to exercise, work, meaningful activities, or contact with the outside world—constitutes cruel and inhuman treatment, amounting to torture.

Viasna has compiled a significant number of testimonies from former prisoners who have endured the repercussions of egregious sanitary violations within detention facilities. These testimonies include the presence of parasitic insects and rodents, constituting a gross violation of international standards for prisoner detention.

Forced labor

Work in Belarusian penitentiaries is called forced labor, as prisoners are usually assigned to heavy and dirty work, while the administration of penitentiary institutions overlooks safety violations. Payment for work performed is used almost entirely to cover the food and utilities charged to inmates. The Criminal Executive Code stipulates that all convicts must work while serving their sentences. The only exceptions are for retirees, people with disabilities, and pregnant women. Refusal to work is a “malicious violation of internal regulations” and is punishable by placement in segregation and possibly a new criminal case under Article 411 of the Criminal Code. In this article, Viasna collected testimonies of former prisoners.

Harassment of journalists and media workers

As of December 30, 45 journalists and media workers were imprisoned, a significant increase of nine additional repressed media workers since last month.

Journalist Siarhei Skulavets, who used to work for Belsat TV, reported that his relatives were searched again. In the summer of 2023, he left Belarus, fearing persecution for his professional activities. The charges and the reason for the search remained unknown, but the journalist was of interest to the special services.

On December 10, 2024, Judge of the Minsk City Court Vera Halaukova sentenced the political prisoner journalist Volha Radzivonava to four years in prison. She was accused of “libeling A. Lukashenka” and “insulting” him, “discrediting the Republic of Belarus,” as well as “inciting other forms of social enmity or discord.” The arbitrary reprisals were due to a series of articles in Die Tageszeitung, the content of which did not meet the criteria for restrictions on freedom of expression according to generally accepted standards, nor did it warrant criminal prosecution or imprisonment.

On December 12, it was reported that at the beginning of the month, mass detentions of workers and journalists from the liquidated private newspaper Intex-press occurred in Baranavičy. Seven individuals have been detained under Article 361-4 of the Criminal Code (promoting extremist activity). Following the 2020 election, the Intex-press editorial staff encountered various challenges, including website censorship, searches, financial penalties, and the confiscation of equipment.

On December 11, the Škloŭ District Court held a trial for Ihar Karnei, a political prisoner, journalist, and blogger who was sentenced to three years in prison in March 2024. Judge Aliaksandr Tarakanau found Ihar guilty of persistent disobedience to the prison administration (Part 1, Article 411 of the Criminal Code) and sentenced him to eight additional months of imprisonment, as RFE/RL Belarus reported. It has been confirmed that the Škloŭ Correctional Facility No. 17 administration has placed the journalist in the Secure Housing Unit on multiple occasions. Consequently, he was sentenced for violations for which the administration has already reprimanded him.

On September 26, 2024, the Court of Pinsk and Pinsk District found journalist Yauhen Nikalayevich guilty under part 1 of Article 342 of the Criminal Code (organizing, preparing, or actively participating in actions that grossly violate public order). He was sentenced to one and a half years in prison. Judge Yauhenia Melnik considered the case.

In 2020, Yauhen Nikalayevich, as a video correspondent for Media-Polesye, covered the protests against electoral fraud in Pinsk. The journalist did not participate in the protests; he was on an editorial assignment, documenting the events through photography and video. On August 10, 2020, Yauhen Nikalayevich was detained and physically assaulted while carrying out his professional duties.

Violation of the freedom of peaceful assembly. Suppression of freedom of expression

Freedom of peaceful assembly and expression continues to be under attack in Belarus, where protesters and dissidents are arbitrarily prosecuted for criminal and administrative offenses, often with serious violations of fair trial standards.

The UN Human Rights Committee reviewed the cases of 18 applicants who were detained and charged under Article 23.34 of the Administrative Violations Code (participation in unauthorized mass events) and determined that the Republic of Belarus had violated the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. The Committee finds that sanctioning applicants for peaceful protest violated their rights under Articles 19 and 21 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. The Viansa HRC interviewed Iryna Hryshchuk, one of the applicants, to discuss the motivations behind her actions.

Article 130 of the Criminal Code (incitement of racial, national, religious, or other social enmity or discord) has been utilized by the regime as a tool to combat dissent since 2020. Article 130 of the Criminal Code addresses cases primarily involving online statements, including publications of various content that criticize the regime and negative remarks about representatives of the authorities. It also encompasses comments made on social media and in public chat rooms and the transfer of information about law enforcement and officials to protest structures. However, sometimes, this article is used more broadly. Human rights activist Nasta Loika and artist Ales Pushkin were also tried under the same article, for a report and art, respectively. In Belarus, 650 people have been convicted under this article, including 106 women. In this article, Viasna reports on who and what is being prosecuted for “incitement to other forms of social discord.”

On November 22, Hrodna Regional Court in the building of Kastryčnicki District Court of Hrodna considered the criminal case against political prisoner Dzmitry Holub under three criminal articles: part 1 of Article 130 (incitement to other forms of social discord), part 1 of Article 368 (insulting Lukashenka), part 1 of Article 342 (active participation in actions that grossly violate public order). Judge Dzmitry Bubenchyk sentenced the political prisoner to four years in prison. According to the prosecution’s account, from November 2019 to January 2024, Dzmitry disseminated comments via Telegram chats and his YouTube channel, addressing law enforcement, the Russian military, journalists, government officials, and Lukashenka. He was also accused of participating in a protest in 2020.

According to the Mayday Team, Viasna’s Mahilioŭ branch, on October 2, the Krasnapollie District Court of Mahilioŭ sentenced local resident Aliaksandr Kireyeu to one year of imprisonment for “insulting Aliaksandr Lukashenka” (Article 368 of the Criminal Code). The basis for criminal prosecution was that, in June 2024, Kireyeu “used inappropriate language to express his negative assessment of the personality of the President of the Republic of Belarus” in the presence of officers from the Krasnapollie District Department of Internal Affairs and the Krasnapollie District Department of Compulsory Enforcement. The trial was presided over by Judge Yauhenia Krautsova.

After 2020, some Belarusians expressed their dissent by showing disrespect for the state symbols imposed by the Lukashenka regime following the fraudulent 1996 “referendum” that replaced the constitutional symbols. Actions included tearing down red-green flags from buildings, breaking their poles, or making critical comments about the state flag. The authorities qualify such actions as “desecration of state symbols.” Over the past four years, at least 211 people have been convicted under Article 370 of the Criminal Code. The maximum penalty for this crime is three years of imprisonment. Viasna also reported on the prosecution of Belarusians for “desecration of state symbols.”

Persecution masquerading as combating extremism and terrorism

In Belarus, the de facto authorities persist in suppressing extremism, broadly defining it to include expressions of alternative viewpoints and independent associations of people.

Civil society organizations, media outlets, and online resources and mobile applications used by civil society are recognized by the authorities as extremist formations. This, in turn, is a reason to prosecute them under criminal law. In December, the Ministry of Interior expanded the List of Organizations, Formations, and Individuals Involved in Extremist Activities by including six new entries and updating two existing ones. That is twice as many as in November. The additions include the news agency Pozirk, the Telegram channels “Homieĺ – Stary Aerodrom – Chat” and “Free Žlobin,” the mobile application “Belarus ID,” the “Volnyia Kupalautsy” channel, as well as two previously listed popular media outlets among Belarusians: Zerkalo.io and KYKY.ORG.

The Belarusian Association of Journalists reports that the most common criminal charge against media representatives was “creation or participation in an extremist formation” under part 1 or 3 of Article 361-1 of the Criminal Code. It was used on at least 21 occasions.

Individuals convicted on political grounds, that is, for committing crimes of an “extremist nature” (as defined by the Law on Countering Extremism, an act that human rights activists have criticized), are included in the List of Belarusian Citizens, Foreign Nationals, or Stateless Persons Involved in Extremist Activities by the Ministry of Internal Affairs. The list is regularly updated, with the most recent update occurring weekly, every Friday. For December, 93 people were added to the list, with an average of 23 people added to the list per week.

The following individuals have been added to the list: Homieĺ-based pro-government provocateur Yauhen Katliarou; foreman of OAO Hrodnazhylstroy Dzmitry Holub; and Brest resident Ala Dziasiatsik.

The KGB continues to update the list of persons involved in terrorist activities. The list includes Yury Averkau, Dzmitry Sidarenka, Uladzimir Alisiyevich, Andrei Valakhanovich, Jerzy Grigencza, Viktoria Veras, Tsikhan Klukach, and Russian citizens Eduard Koshetian and Oleg Kovrigin. The list of individuals designated as “terrorists” currently includes 517 individuals. Among them are citizens of Belarus who are being targeted for their political activities, as well as one citizen of Latvia, one of Germany, three citizens of the Russian Federation, and four citizens of Ukraine. The authorities impose financial restrictions on individuals listed as “terrorists,” ostensibly to combat terrorism. In practice, this results in the deprivation of commissary money for political prisoners under “terrorist” articles. 

The Ministry of Information continues to censor independent information by adding Telegram channels, YouTube channels, TikTok accounts, and Internet pages, including personal pages, to the List of Extremist Materials. The process of recognizing materials as extremist involves four conditional stages. First, state bodies tasked with combating extremism, such as the Ministry of Internal Affairs or the Ministry of Information, submit a request to special commissions. Second, these commissions—republican, regional, or Minsk City—evaluate the materials for signs of extremism. Third, after the evaluation, the case is forwarded to the court. Finally, the court issues the final decision. The proceedings are closed, and the content of the material is not disclosed. Following the trial, the Ministry of Information enters the titles into the republican list of extremist materials.

The courts and commissions do not thoroughly examine and evaluate materials to determine whether they contain true extremism. Recognizing materials as extremist is an ongoing challenge due to lacking specific and exhaustive grounds. This is primarily due to the broad wording in the legislation and destructive political will. Over the past four years, with a few exceptions, only sources of information not aligned with the regime have been added to the list. In December, 129 court decisions were made to classify information materials as extremist, with only five of these targeting resources featuring neo-Nazi content.

In December, the page on “X”—managed by Oleksandra Matviychuk, the head of the Ukrainian public organization Center for Civil Liberties, which won the Nobel Peace Prize in 2022—was identified as “extremist material.” Another piece of material flagged was the Telegram chat “Minsk, all about you CHAT,” which has almost 1,600 participants, most of whom are ordinary schoolchildren. Political issues are rarely discussed, but you can see young people’s messages ridiculing Lukashenka. The Instagram page “belarus_tbilisi_krakov,” the Facebook pages “Sweda Ales,” “Ihar Maslouski,” the Vkontakte page “Igor Maslovski,” and the TikTok page “Kuzma Ryzhy,” X pages “zefiryk,” “Kuzma Ryzhy,” and TikTok page “kukuha98” were also added to the list of extremist materials. 

Maintaining a register of extremist materials enables the authorities to prosecute readers and users of these materials under Article 19.11 of the Administrative Violations Code (distribution, production, storage, or transportation of information products that incite or propagate extremist activities), which stipulates the sanction of a fine or administrative detention, along with the confiscation of the “means of committing the violation.” The latter term typically refers to a cell phone.  

On December 20, the Čyhunačny District Court of Viciebsk considered the case of Siarhei Prashkevich, a well-known Instagram blogger in Viciebsk. His account boasts close to 50,000 followers, and he engages in street polls and organizes drawings for subscribers. It is known that Siarhei was previously persecuted for participating in peaceful protests. 

On December 19, the Viciebsk District Court considered yet another case against 70-year-old Aliaksandr Patapau

Individuals who demonstrate allegiance to the authorities are also subject to the effects of overt censorship. For instance, on December 13, the court found Zhanna Valevich, an employee of the Liepieĺ dairy-canning factory, guilty of “distribution of extremist materials” (part 2 of Article 19.11 of the Administrative Violations Code) and “unauthorized picketing” (part 1 of Article 24.23 of the Administrative Violations Code). According to pro-governmental district newspapers, she strategically scheduled her “silver wedding” to coincide with People’s Unity Day. 

Prosecutions for “extremist offenses” are ongoing. Among the points of contention are criticisms of state symbols, comments regarding Lukashenka and special services, participation in protests in 2020, and other instances of expressing alternative opinions. 

The authorities are expanding the persecution of political opponents and dissidents under the guise of combating extremism beyond the borders of the Republic of Belarus by issuing convictions in absentia of people forced to leave the Republic of Belarus due to the threat of persecution. For instance, on December 13, the Brest Region Court sentenced art manager Aliaksandr Chakhouski to seven years in prison and a fine of $9,770. 


Source: Human Rights Center "Viasna" 

“As the sham election approaches, repression intensifies. Lukashenka continues to behave as if hundreds of thousands are still standing outside his palace”

Jan 09, 2024

During her visit to Warsaw, Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya spoke at a joint session of the Polish Sejm, Senate, and the Committees on Foreign and European Affairs. Polish MPs, experts, and politicians attended the session, as well as representatives of the Belarusian community: Pavel Latushka, Aliaksandr Milinkevich, Anatoli Liabedzka, Anzhalika Melnikava, Marharyta Vorykhava, Alina Koushyk, Vlad Kobets, and Matsvei Kupreichyk.

In her speech, Ms. Tsikhanouskaya focused on political prisoners in Belarus, cooperation with the democratic forces, and regional security, calling for supporting Belarusians in Poland and distinguishing between Belarusians and the regime. The leader emphasized that for Belarusians, Poland is a symbol of freedom, solidarity, and the European future they continue to fight for every day.

“Hundreds of thousands of Belarusians have found a safe haven in Poland. They participate in public life, volunteer, and donate to support Ukraine and our volunteer fighters. These people are a treasure and an essential part of our democratic movement. They need support. We need to make their lives easier”.


Source: Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya

Lukashenko will face no problems if he "paints" himself 99%

Jan 08, 2024

Yuriy Gubarevich, NAM's Regional Development Representative and leader of the "For Freedom" movement, in an interview with the Ukrainian publication "FREEДОМ", discussed how Lukashenko's reappointment would unfold on January 26, 2025.

"The 'No-Election-2025' differs from all previous electoral campaigns because there used to be opportunities for opposition political parties to act. In 2021–2022, all of them were liquidated. All four candidates are merely sparring partners, and even the presence of some opposition episodes in their biographies signifies nothing. These individuals have been thoroughly vetted and will campaign in support of Lukashenko".

Lukashenko will once again refuse to participate in debates

"He feels uncomfortable when he might receive an unexpected or unprepared question from an interlocutor. The dictator will simply stay on the air, while the other candidates will be given strictly limited time during which they will praise Lukashenko. This is part of their agreement to participate in these elections".

The dictator will 'paint' himself no less than 90% 

"Even if Lukashenko decides to 'paint' himself a result higher than Putin's in these 'no-elections', the Kremlin will pay no attention. Many other dictators from former Soviet republics have allowed themselves to claim nearly one hundred percent support. But I do not think that Lukashenko will face any consequences if he even claims 99%. The regime within Belarus might go for this, as Lukashenko's usurpation of power is complete and absolute".


Source: NAM

The year of persecution and pardoning: figures on political prisoners in Belarus in 2024

Dec 31, 2024

For Belarusians, last year was marked by mass persecution for solidarity. A year when Lukashenka once again showed that he is still at war with women. Senior citizens, teenagers, cancer patients, and parents with many children — it makes no difference to the regime who is detained when the actions of Belarusians are seen as "extremism." The year 2024 was also marked by several waves of pardons with a total of 227 political prisoners released. At the same time, detentions of dozens of people continue daily throughout Belarus. The elections, which will be held in January of the new year, have triggered a series of new preventive attacks on the public sector. In addition, the situation with political prisoners in Belarus remains at a critical level. Prisoners are held in appalling conditions without access to proper medical care, are subjected to torture and beatings, and are held incommunicado for months. Viasna reports in numbers how the situation with political prisoners has changed in 2024. 

As of December 29, 2024, 1,265 political prisoners are being held behind bars. Of these, 1,097are men and 168 are women.

According to Viasna, at least 224 political prisoners are at particular risk. 104 people are in a precarious health state behind bars, 11 people have disabilities, 46 people are over the age of 60 (many of them have serious health problems), and 16 people have mental disorders. There are 29 mothers and fathers with many children among the political prisoners.

For people from certain vulnerable groups, incarceration is even more challenging than for others. In addition, it further worsens their health due to untimely care, lack of regular medical examinations that they need, and the unavailability of the necessary medical supplies.

Currently, the following are imprisoned:

There are at least 30 families among current political prisoners, which has been the maximum number of families behind bars over the past few years.

For example, Aliaksei Zachapila and his wife Liudmila Likhacheuskaya are currently imprisoned. They were placed in custody, although the couple has three children, one of whom is a minor. Through the court, money was recovered from them for child support.

Incommunicado imprisonment is a serious violation of human rights. It means that a convicted person is not allowed to correspond and visit relatives and a lawyer. At least nine political prisoners are currently known to be incommunicado: Siarhei Tsikhanouski, Ihar Losik, Viktar Babaryka,Maksim Znak, Mikalai Statkevich, Mikalai Bankou, Aliaksandr Frantskevich, Andrei Navitski, and Uladzimir Kniha.

Maryia Kalesnikava was incommunicado for more than 600 days, but in November 2024 she was allowed to meet with her father.

The increased punishment of political prisoners can be called one of the main trends of the last two years. After being transferred to places of detention, the penal colony administration begins to harass them: they are punished for far-fetched reasons, deprived of care packages and visits, and sent to a punitive isolation cell (SHIZO) and a cell-type space (PKT).

This becomes the basis for transfer to a prison security level or the initiation of a criminal case under Article 411 of the Criminal Code (malicious disobedience to the requirements of the administration of a correctional institution).

According to human rights activists, since 2020, at least 95 political prisoners have been transferred to a prison security level and new criminal cases have been initiated against 66more for "disobeying the administration." 

Since June 2024, Lukashenka has signed several decrees pardoning political prisoners. A total of 227 people have been released on pardon. Among them are people with serious illnesses, parents with many children, and senior citizens. Among them, 67-year-old Ryhor Kastusiou, a political prisoner with cancer Pavel Kuchynski, and journalist Ksenia Lutskina were pardoned.

In addition, five political prisoners who are Ukrainian citizens were released on exchange. Natallia Zakharanka, Pavlo Kupriyenko, Liudmila Hancharenka, Katsiaryna Brukhanava, as well as Mikalai Shvets, a defendant in the Mačuliščy sabotage case, were released.

Over the past year, 589 people have been recognized as political prisoners.

Since 2020, at least 1,385 political prisoners have served their full sentences and been released, twice as many as last year. It should be noted that some of them are subjected to repeated prosecution after their release and are detained in new criminal cases.

Last year was marked by tragic dates in the history of modern Belarus — the deaths of four political prisoners whose hearts stopped behind bars.

On the night of January 9, 2024, Vadzim Khrasko, a 50-year-old political prisoner died of pneumonia in Viciebsk colony No. 3. In August 2023, the Minsk City Court sentenced him to three years of imprisonment for several donations, although the man had a serious illness. The man was taken to the hospital when he could no longer be saved.

At the end of February 2024, Ihar Lednik, a political prisoner and a public activist, died at the age of 64. He was sentenced to three years of imprisonment for "slandering Lukashenka." The political prisoner had a disability due to heart problems, but he was sentenced to imprisonment anyway. In the colony, Ihar Lednik's health deteriorated significantly, and he underwent gastrointestinal surgery. The cause of death of the political prisoner was cardiac arrest. Doctors tried to resuscitate him but to no avail.

On April 9, 2024, Aliaksandr Kulinich died in the Brest pre-trial detention center. He was accused of "insulting Lukashenka." His trial was scheduled to take place on April 16. The death reports indicate that Aliaksandr died due to coronary heart disease. In pre-trial detention center No. 7 in Brest, journalists were told that there was a prisoner with that name, but refused to confirm the fact of death.

On November 1, 2024, it became known that Dmitry Shlethauer, a citizen of the Russian Federation, had died in Mahilioŭ colony No. 15. It happened on October 11, 2024. The death certificate of the political prisoner indicated "mechanical asphyxia" as the cause. Very often, such a record is made in cases of suicides. But the family does not believe in his suicide, as Dzmitry had plans and was going to write a petition for clemency. In the summer of 2024, the man was sentenced to 12 years of imprisonment for "espionage" and "facilitating extremist activities."

A total of seven political prisoners have died behind bars since 2021.


Source: Human Rights Center "Viasna" 

"The persecution of Belarusians has spread beyond the borders of Belarus." How the regime harassed people in exile in 2024

Dec 26, 2024

There are more than 1300 political prisoners in Belarus today. Before the next elections*, people inside the country are subjected to incredible pressure and harassment: detentions and searches have not stopped for almost five years. Due to political persecution, more and more people are forced to leave their homes and leave Belarus. But this is not enough for the regime. In 2024, forced refugees have been increasingly persecuted: trials in absentia, searches of relatives remaining in Belarus, new threats and restrictions — this is not a complete list of the repressive practices that the authorities use against them.

The authorities seek to stifle any activity of people abroad and silence them. Today, Viasna reports on that.

Handing over Belarusians

In November 2024, Vietnam handed over to Belarus Vasil Verameichyk, a volunteer of the Kalinoŭski Regiment, who was detained in this Asian country. It is reported that the man ended up in Asia, as Lithuania recognized him as a threat to national security and banned him from entering the European Union. The man was brought to Belarus on the evening of November 14 under the escort of three people. A criminal case was initiated against him under Part 1 of Article 366 (violence or threat against an official performing official duties) of the Criminal Code.

Since the beginning of the repression in 2020, there have also been cases of Belarusians being detained in Russia. Thus, the security forces arrested former political prisoner Aliaksei Korshun, as well as political prisoner Yury Kastsiuk, who was beaten during extradition. 

Trials in absentia

In 2024, criminal proceedings were initiated against 110 Belarusians who left Belarus due to persecution. For comparison, 17 criminal cases in absentia were initiated in four months of 2022, and 18 in 2023. Investigators place a special emphasis on finding the property of these Belarusians to confiscate it, allegedly as compensation for the damage caused.

There are many trials for participation in peaceful assemblies and "insulting" officials and Lukashenka.

For example, in May, the most massive trial in absentia began in the Minsk City Court. In the case of the Tsikhanouskaya Analysts, 20 people were convicted at once — political scientists, journalists, and sociologists. According to the case file, all of them were accused of committing "crimes of an extremist nature" in connection with the election campaign of Aliaksandr Lukashenka, as well as in the post-electoral period. They were sentenced to a minimum of 11 years of imprisonment each and huge fines.

Human rights defenders are also sentenced in absentia. Former political prisoner, lawyer, and human rights defender Leanid Sudalenka was sentenced in absentia in the Homieĺ Regional Court. After his release, Leanid was charged under Parts 1 and 2 of Article 361-4 (assistance to extremist activities) of the Criminal Code and sentenced to five years in a high-security penal colony and a huge fine. Viasna human rights defender Alena Masliukova was sentenced in absentia to three years in a general security penal colony. She is charged under Part 1 and Part 2 of Articles 361-4 of the Criminal Code (assistance to extremist activities), but the essence of the charge is unknown even to the human rights defender.

Let us remind you that Lukashenka signed the law that allows trying Belarusians in absentia in July 2022. This has become a new repressive tool against opponents of the Lukashenka regime and political activists who have left Belarus. It allows investigations to be completed and cases to be brought to court in the absence of the accused. There are practically no opportunities for the accused to participate in such a process. Only each time the Investigative Committee publishes news about the initiation of a case, it urges the defendants to come to their department. 

According to Viasna, more than 55 people have been detained upon their return to Belarus since the beginning of 2024, 17 of whom have been prosecuted. However, the figure may be significantly higher due to human rights defenders lacking the complete data.

Threats from the security forces

Sometimes Belarusians forced to leave the country receive letters or phone calls from security forces. They offer to "come back and come for questioning," they say that the punishment will not be related to imprisonment, and the recipient will be able to stay at home until the trial. Some are offered to return "to receive administrative punishment and live in peace."

KGB officers wrote and called some Belarusians abroad because the latter had donated to various initiatives. The former offered to return and pay a "ransom." The security forces write to activists who helped political prisoners: they are asked where the activists got money to help political prisoners, and whether they knew those they helped.

Former political prisoners receive calls abroad and also their relatives are visited. People sentenced to restriction of freedom are also asked where they live and required to send a confirmation of their stay abroad.

For example, the Main Directorate for Combating Organized Crime and Corruption (GUBOPiK) threatened blogger Mikita Melkaziorau. GUBOPiK's outrage was caused by Melkaziorau calling the Soviet-era party figure Panteleimon Ponomarenko a "piece of shit."

Pressure on relatives in Belarus

Since the very beginning of 2024, pressure has continued on the relatives of Belarusians who were forced to leave abroad due to political persecution. Thus, in January 2024, there were mass detentions of relatives of political prisoners and former political prisoners throughout the country. On charges of "extremism", the KGB conducted raids, interrogations, and detentions against nearly 300 family members of current and former political prisoners, as well as beneficiaries of the INeedHelpBY initiative. Most of them are mothers and wives of political prisoners, including Maryna Adamovich, the wife of Mikalai Statkevich, Tatsiana Seviarynets, the mother of Pavel Seviarynets, and Darya Losik, the wife of Ihar Losik, who was previously arrested.

After this raid, Iryna Takarchuk, the mother of former political prisoner Volha Takarchuk, was detained. The woman was sentenced to three years in a penal colony.

In the fall of 2024, there was a new wave of persecution. On November 14, KGB officers staged another raid across the country, and relatives of political prisoners were also detained. Many people have been arrested and searched for receiving help. The human rights defenders found out about the third wave of harassment in the winter — people are interrogated and devices and bank cards are confiscated. This is probably also related to getting help.

Sometimes relatives were forced to say what the police officers wanted on camera. In July 2024, such videos were recorded with relatives of the leading Lusterka TikTok accounts. Several additional criminal cases have been initiated against their presenters, with searches and confiscation of property.

In the fall of 2024, security forces visited the mother of Homieĺ resident Mikalai Stahurski: they confiscated the woman's phone and threatened to "detain her for a day."

For example, after the January raid, Aliaksandr Semianiuk, the daughter of political prisoner Alena Hnauk, was forced to leave with her three children.

Persecution for participation in marches abroad

The Investigative Committee has initiated a criminal case against Belarusians who took part in Freedom Day rallies around the world. The agency reported that 104 names had been added to the list of suspects in the case of Belarusians Abroad. They allegedly took part in street actions in Warsaw, Vilnius, Wrocław, Białystok, Brussels, Batumi, Prague, California, Philadelphia, etc. These people are recognized as suspects in the criminal case — they are charged under Articles 361-1 of the Criminal Code (creation of an extremist formation and participation in it) and Articles 369-1 of the Criminal Code (discrediting the Republic of Belarus).

As part of the investigation of the criminal case, security forces discover information about real estate and property in Belarus belonging to these people. Investigative actions are currently underway, including inspections, searches, confiscation of property, and other procedural measures.

Various lists of "undesirables"

The so-called lists of "extremists", "terrorists", and "extremist formations" are updated weekly in Belarus. Belarusians who were forced to emigrate due to political persecution — those who were tried in Belarus or in absentia — constantly get there. Most of the restrictions imposed on people on such lists are related to activities within the country.

Let us remind you that there are almost five thousand people on the list of "extremists", and 1,220 people on the "terrorist" list, among whom more than 500 are Belarusians.

Belarusian organizations are also recognized as "extremist formations" — moreover, the names of persons allegedly related to them are published.

In six months, 773 Belarusian citizens appeared on the Russian wanted list. It includes more than 3,500 people in total. Belarusian human rights activists Natallia Satsunkevich, Leanid Sudalenka, Ihar Kazmerchak, Iryna Tratsiakova, Pavel Levinau, Maryia Tarasenka, Uladzimir Khilmanovich, Zmitser Salauyou, Alena Masliukova, Siarzhuk Sys were added to the database

Criminalization of communication with people abroad

In an environment where a huge number of people have been convicted in absentia, put on "extremist" and "terrorist" lists, and organizations are recognized as "extremist formations," any connection to them is criminalized. It is known that criminal cases are initiated against Belarusians for interviews with media that are recognized as "extremist." 

In September 2024, it became known that a criminal case had been initiated for participating in Plan:B TV show on Belsat TV channel. There are more than a dozen people suspected of facilitating extremist activities (Part 2 of Articles 361-4 of the Criminal Code). Investigators came to the relatives of the suspects, inquired about the whereabouts of the show participants, interviewed neighbors, and conducted other procedural actions. Human rights defenders know of several searches.

Ihar Kazmerchak, an Orša human rights defender and the editor of the portal Orsha.eu, became a defendant in the criminal case brought against those who gave interviews to the media included in the list of "extremist formations".

Documents related pressure

Some of the forms of pressure are related to the legislative restrictions that were imposed in 2023. They continued to operate in 2024, making life more difficult for Belarusians abroad. It is still prohibited to obtain passports abroad and to carry out property transactions in Belarus based on a power of attorney issued abroad. 

In addition, people who have returned home after living abroad still face detentions.

Pavel Sapelka, a Viasna lawyer, commented on the persecution of Belarusians abroad: 

"The persecution of Belarusians for exercising their civil rights and freedoms, as well as manifestations of state terrorism aimed at intimidating dissidents, opponents of the regime, and even ordinary people has spread beyond the borders of Belarus.

In her final report, UN Human Rights Council Special Rapporteur Anaïs Marin notedthat measures against citizens moving abroad and their family members, politically motivated harassment, and violations of fair trial guarantees are inadmissible.

Since the summer of 2020, the actions of the Belarusian regime have been a large-scale and systematic attack on the civilian population. Taking this into account, the Government of the Republic of Lithuania, under Articles 13 (A) and 14 of the Rome Statute, on September 30, 2024, referred the situation in the Republic of Belarus to the International Criminal Court for investigation by the Prosecutor's Office of the Court. The government noted that 'as part of this attack, the regime forcibly displaced hundreds of thousands of legal residents of Belarus in neighboring Lithuania and other countries, without grounds permitted by international law. Such a displacement, known as deportation (since it is carried out across the border), occurred through various basic actions/behaviors listed above, including expulsion, other coercive actions, or other related crimes, and was committed for political reasons.

The deportation was the key objective of the Belarusian regime's attack — to get rid of all critics and opponents by any means to strengthen the regime's authoritarian position in power. All the direct perpetrators, their commanders, and superiors were clearly aware of the attack. There are obvious links between expulsions, threats, and other key factors contributing to a coercive environment, and a general attack leading to illegal deportation.' Lawyers believe that collectively these actions constitute crimes against humanity of three different types: (a) illegal deportation, (b) persecution, and (c) other inhumane acts and possibly other related crimes."


Source: Human Rights Center "Viasna" 

record number of families prosecuted

Dec 16, 2024

In November, the Viasna Human Rights Center observed a continuing trend toward criminal prosecution of citizens for political reasons. Over the past month, at least 144 people have become victims of criminal repression, of whom 35 are women and 109 are men. Four more people were convicted in special proceedings.

78 people were convicted in Minsk in November

The prosecution in politically motivated criminal cases in different regions in November looked as follows:

Record number of families prosecutedr

During November, a record number of married couples or groups of relatives who came under politically motivated criminal prosecution were recorded. The Minsk City Court heard the case against Henadz and Iryna Saurytski, as well as their daughter Viyaleta Viarbitskaya, under Part 3 of Article 130 of the Criminal Code, which stipulates liability for inciting hatred. The Brest Regional Court heard the case against Uladzislau and Tatsiana Kasheyeu under the article for treason.

Ten more groups of relatives were persecuted in November under Article 342. The case against Ihar and Katsiaryna Hramovich, as well as Andrei, Hanna, and Tatsiana Vashchyshyn, was heard in the Frunzenski District Court of Minsk. The Kastryčnicki District Court of Minsk handled the cases against Mark Kunitski and Iryna Pratazanava-Kunitskaya, as well as Siarhei and Anzhela Sandaliuk.

The Tsentraĺny District Court of Minsk heard the case against Aleh and Dziyana Siniauski. The Zavadskoj District Court of Minsk handled the case against Hanna, Ina, and Raman Usmanau. The case against Aksana and Andrei Salavei was heard in the Peršamajski District Court of Minsk. The Dziarzhynsk District Court heard the cases against Darya and Mikhail Navosh, as well as Illia and Alesia Zhyburt. The cases against Aliaksandr and Anton Nevar were handled in the Pinsk District Court with an interval of one day.

An increase in repeated and subsequent convictions

In November, Viasna recorded five cases of repeated persecution of citizens previously prosecuted in politically motivated criminal cases. The case against Siarhei Arlou was heard in the Tsentraĺny District Court of Minsk under the article on resistance to an employee of the internal affairs bodies. In July 2022, the Čavusy District Court convicted the man under an article stipulating liability for insulting a representative of the authorities. The Frunzenski District Court of Minsk handled the case against Tsimur Khairulin under the article on insulting a representative of the authorities. In August 2022, the man was persecuted by the Minsk City Court under this article and the article stipulating responsibility for inciting hatred.

The Miadzeĺ District Court handled the case against environmental activist Stanislau Taspayeuunder articles on repeated violations of the procedure for organizing or holding mass events and discrediting the Republic of Belarus. Exactly three years ago, the man was persecuted by the same court under an article on defamation and sentenced to two years of restriction of freedom without being sent to an open-type correctional facility.

The Maladzečna District Court heard a case under the article stipulating responsibility for insulting Lukashenka against Anton Puhach, who six months ago was sentenced by the Leninski District Court of Mahilioŭ to one and a half years of imprisonment under the same article and the article stipulating responsibility for insulting a representative of the authorities.

The Kobryn District Court handled the case under Parts 1 and 2 of Article 342 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Belarus against Uladzislau Nastsiushkin. A year ago, in the same court, he was convicted under an article stipulating responsibility for the development, use, distribution, or sale of malicious computer programs or special software or hardware.

Further persecution of political prisoners

In November, the trend of arbitrary persecution of political prisoners who were repressed at the very beginning of the political crisis in mid-2020, whose term of imprisonment was coming to an end at the end of 2024, became visible. The Babrujsk District Court handled the cases against Pavel Spiryn and Dzmitry Kazlou under Article 411, which stipulates repeated and arbitrary extension of the imprisonment term for "malicious disobedience to the requirements of the administration of a correctional institution."

In the same court and under the same article, the case against Siarhei Kanavalau was heard. In September 2022, the man was sentenced to imprisonment for a term of 15 years under articles on an act of terrorism, intentionally damaging a vehicle or communication lines, and inciting hatred.

In November, Article 411 of the Criminal Code was applied to extend the sentence of Aliaksandr Aranovich, who was sentenced to six years of imprisonment for preparing for mass riots and organizing actions that grossly violate public order.


Source: Human Rights Center "Viasna" 

Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya met with European Parliament President Roberta Metsola

Dec 13, 2024

The President of the European Parliament, Roberta Metsola, hosted Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya ahead of the high-level conference on Belarus in the European Parliament.

Ms. Tsikhanouskaya thanked Ms. Metsola for supporting the Belarus Days in Brussels and inviting over 150 Belarusian representatives, including human rights defenders, activists, journalists, and cultural figures.

“This is truly an unprecedented event. It demonstrates your solidarity and support”, the Belarusian leader noted.

During their meeting, Ms. Metsola and Ms. Tsikhanouskaya discussed plans to deepen cooperation between the European Parliament and Belarus’ democratic forces following the Letter of Intent on Cooperation signed earlier this year.

Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya urged the European Parliament to refrain from recognizing Lukashenka’s sham election, maintain a principled and consistent policy, and demand the cessation of repression, the release of political prisoners, and an end to the regime’s involvement in the war. The parties also discussed possible plenary hearings on Belarus in the European Parliament.

“For years, President Roberta Metsola has taken a decisive and principled stance on Belarus. She has consistently supported our struggle and emphasized the distinction between the regime and the Belarusian people. I know she deeply cares about our country and especially about our political prisoners. Roberta Metsola has become a godparent to Palina Sharenda-Panasiuk and actively raised the issue of her release, as well as the release of all political prisoners, on international platforms.

I am truly glad that the European Union’s support for Belarus remains unwavering and the issue of Belarus unites different groups and parties in the European Parliament”, noted Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya.


Source: Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya

“The EU will continue to play a key role in shaping Belarus’ future”

Dec 12, 2024

During the Belarus Days in Brussels, Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya held a briefing for a European Parliament delegation.

She outlined the key challenges Belarus faces, calling for rejecting the legitimacy of the 2025 ‘election’, supporting independent Belarusian media, and increasing assistance to Belarusian society. In addition, she proposed effective ways to aid political prisoners and their families.

Talking about the 2025 sham election, Ms. Tsikhanouskaya urged the EU to:

The Belarusian leader also outlined specific steps the EU could take to support:

Independent media:

Civil society:

Political prisoners:


Source: Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya

The People’s Embassies of Belarus participated in the high-level conference “Stand with People of Belarus”, which took place on December 12 in the European Parliament 

Dec 12, 2024

This significant event brought together international partners to support the Belarusian people in their struggle for democracy and human rights.

During the conference, two panel discussions were held:

The event was jointly organised by the European External Affairs  Service and the European Parliament, in cooperation with the European Commission, as part of the Days of Belarus in Brussels.


Source: People's Embassies of Belarus

Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya’s comment on the suicide of activist Sviatlana Krutsikava

Dec 11, 2024

“On December 10, Sviatlana Krutsikava took her own life. She had been persecuted for distributing ‘extremist’ materials, subjected to searches, and endured psychological abuse. It is impossible to comprehend the torment that drove someone to such a tragic and irreversible step – a step born of despair.

The regime destroys lives not only in prisons. It ruins people’s health – both physical and mental – through harassment, threats of persecution, and relentless manipulation. At some point, even the strongest hearts can break.

News like this brings immense pain and horror. Repression and war can shake even the brightest souls to their core and drive them to despair. We all face endless challenges in life. Please, check in on your loved ones. Ask how they are, stand by them during difficult times, and stay connected. If you feel overwhelmed and alone, seek support from those close to you and share your pain.

In this difficult moment, I want to extend my deepest condolences to Sviatlana’s family. The loss of a loved one is an unfathomable grief that defies comparison”.


Source: Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya

By displaying the works of political prisoners, we remind the world of their plight

Dec 11, 2024

During her visit to Brussels, Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya inaugurated the exhibition “Voices from Prison: Art as Resistance”. The project features drawings and letters revealing the stories of Belarusian political prisoners, their resilience, and the defiance they demonstrate even behind bars.

In her speech, Ms. Tsikhanouskaya praised the project as important and shared her reflections after viewing the exhibition:

“This exhibition pays tribute to our political prisoners. There are over 1,300 of them officially but the real number is much higher.

You can probably guess what strikes me the most here – the outline of my husband’s hand. Words can’t convey all the emotions I feel. Siarhei sent letters like this before he lost all contact with the outside world – more than 600 days ago. Since then, my children and I have not heard from him and don’t even know if he is alive.

Thankfully, some of the contributors to this exhibition have been freed. But many are still imprisoned. For them, writing poetry or drawing is perhaps their only way to preserve their humanity in inhumane conditions.

By displaying the works of political prisoners, we remind the world of their plight and the urgent need to secure their release”.

The exhibition was organized by the European External Action Service in cooperation with Belarusian partners, including the Representation for National Revival of the United Transitional Cabinet, BYSOL, A Country to Live in, Voices Across Borders, and Freedom Postcards.


Source: Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya

"How can free and fair elections take place in such an environment in Belarus?" OSCE countries issued a statement

Dec 09, 2024

Ahead of the OSCE Ministerial Council meeting on December 6, 37 participating states issued a statement on the elections in Belarus. It noted that they remain deeply concerned about the constantly deteriorating human rights situation in Belarus, Pozirk reported.

The statement once again called for the release of all political prisoners:

“We reiterate that the Belarusian authorities must ensure that all persons deprived of their liberty are treated with humanity and respect for their inherent dignity. Belarusian authorities have the responsibility to implement their OSCE commitments, including those under the 2020 Tirana Ministerial Council Decision on Prevention and Eradication of Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment.”

“While we recognize the pardons that have been granted since July 2024, we emphasize that the Belarusian authorities continue to arbitrarily detain many more citizens on political grounds than they have pardoned,” the authors noted.

The signatories recall that in 1990, in Copenhagen and Paris, OSCE participating states committed to democracy and political pluralism underlining that “the will of the people, freely and fairly expressed through periodic and genuine elections, is the basis of the authority and legitimacy of all government,” and reaffirmed these commitments in Istanbul in 1999.

“How can free and fair elections take place in such an environment in Belarus? Where there is no freedom of expression or media freedom? Where anyone who expresses a view counter to the authorities is branded 'extremist'? Where individuals who attempt to exercise their right to freedom of peaceful assembly and association face a real threat of arrest and detention? In an environment with restrictions on political participation and de facto no form of political opposition allowed within the country?” the document says.

OSCE observers, as in previous election campaigns, have not been invited to the country.

"Human Rights Defenders for Free Elections"


Source: Human Rights Center "Viasna" 

Outcomes of the Belarus–USA Strategic Dialogue

Dec 05, 2024

The second round of the Strategic Dialogue between the United States government and the democratic forces of Belarus took place in Vilnius. The meeting was chaired by the US Deputy Assistant Secretary of State, Christopher Smith, and the Head of Belarus’ United Transitional Cabinet, Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya. Representatives of Belarusian democratic institutions, civil society, human rights organizations, and media outlets also attended the meeting.

The discussions and arrangements centered around:

The US reaffirmed its stance that all political prisoners must be released unconditionally. Discussions covered expanding support for their families, rehabilitation programs, and psychological assistance for those released.

Financial support for independent media and human rights defenders in exile will continue. Assistance will also be extended to Belarusian businesses operating abroad.

The US stated its support for international investigations, including collection of evidence and preparation of trials addressing crimes against humanity.

Belarusian cultural initiatives will receive aid through programs for language preservation, literary translation, cultural events, and educational projects.

Over 100 Belarusians participated in educational and professional exchanges with the US in the past year. The number of participants is set to increase in 2025, with a focus on young leaders, educators, and media representatives.

Existing sanctions will be strengthened, with new measures targeting individuals and companies supporting the regime and involved in the war against Ukraine, including suppliers for Russia’s defense industry.

The parties agreed that a free election is impossible given the current situation in Belarus and the campaign scheduled for January 2025 cannot be recognized as fair or legitimate.

The meeting emphasized the need to deepen the partnership between the United States and the democratic forces of Belarus. Dedicated working groups will be established to ensure that the agreed initiatives are implemented.


Source: Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya

Human rights situation in Belarus. November 2024

Dec 05, 2024

Summary:

Politically motivated prosecution. Political prisoners

In early November, it was revealed that Dmitry Shletgauer, the seventh political prisoner to die in prison, passed away on October 11 at Mahilioŭ Correctional Facility No. 15. The death certificate of the political prisoner indicates that the cause of death was “mechanical asphyxia.” It is very common for suicides to be on record in this way. According to a Zerkalo source, the family does not believe in suicide, as Dmitry shared plans with them and was going to write a petition for clemency. In the summer of 2024, the man was sentenced to 12 years in prison on charges of espionage (Article 358 of the Criminal Code) and promoting extremist activities (Part 1 of Article 361-4 of the Criminal Code).

As of November 30, there were 1,296 political prisoners in Belarus, including 172 women. 31 political prisoners are in a critical state of health, which is not compatible with their imprisonment. In November, 62 people were recognized by human rights activists as political prisoners.

At the end of November, the number of former political prisoners reached 2,392, including 499 women. It has been confirmed that at least 24 political prisoners completed their sentences in November, and at least 15 political prisoners have done so in October. 

In November, A. Lukashenka approved the pardoning of 63 individuals convicted on political grounds, as stipulated in two presidential decrees. Since June of this year, 178 individuals have been released as a result of pardons.

Concurrently, the overall rate of politically motivated prosecution is on the rise. It is estimated that at least 7,615 individuals have been subjected to politically motivated criminal prosecution since 2020, with at least 6,249 individuals receiving politically motivated convictions. 

In November, at least 671 politically motivated repressions (detentions, searches, etc.) stemming from criminal and administrative prosecution were recorded.

Political prisoners who remain in places of detention continue to experience pressure from prison administrations. This includes placement in punishment cells and the Secure Housing Unit, transfers to high-security prisons, new criminal charges, arbitrary isolation from contact with the outside world, and other forms of pressure.

The Viasna publication presents an overview of the ongoing persecution of political prisoners following their release.

The available information indicates that the following political prisoners are being held in an incommunicado regime: Mikalai Statkevich, Maksim Znak, Ihar Losik, Siarhei Tsikhanouski, Viktar Babaryka, Aliaksandr Frantskevich, Andrei Novikau, and Uladzimir Kniha. This form of detention, which prohibits any communication with the outside world, represents a form of torture under the current conditions and contains signs of enforced disappearance. Maria Kalesnikava was allowed to see her father after spending more than 600 days incommunicado.

The political prisoners Aliaksandr Aranovich, Siarhei Kanavalau, Pavel Spiryn, Dzmitry Kazlou, and Ihar Karnei were charged under Article 411 of the Criminal Code based on multiple disciplinary sanctions imposed on prisoners. The trials were held in November, and the verdicts are still unknown to human rights defenders. Typically, the trials are conducted in camera on the premises of correctional facilities.

New politically motivated charges have been brought against Tsimur Khairulin, a former political prisoner who was released from prison at the conclusion of his sentence. He was previously charged with insulting a public officer (Article 369 of the Criminal Code). The court handed down a six-month prison sentence, after which the man was taken into custody in the courtroom.

It has been revealed that the court will deliberate on transferring political prisoner Siarhei Maushuk to a high-security prison.

Persecution of human rights defenders

Maria Rabkova and Andrei Chapiuk have been held captive for a period exceeding four years in connection with their human rights activities. Similarly, Nobel Peace Prize laureate Ales Bialiatski, human rights defenders Valiantsin Stefanovic, and Uladzimir Labkovich have been behind bars for over three years. Nasta Loika, a human rights activist working with Human Constanta, has spent two years in prison.

According to data available to Viasna human rights activists, more than 50 activists associated with independent trade unions and organizers of labor strikes at various workplaces were detained between September 2020 and 2024. Many have been prosecuted for their activities in defense of workers’ rights.

The Ministry of Internal Affairs has added Alena Masliukova, a Viasna human rights activist previously sentenced in absentia, to the List of Citizens of the Republic of Belarus, Foreign Citizens, and Stateless Persons Involved in Extremist Activities.

Furthermore, several human rights defenders were listed in the databases of wanted persons in Belarus and Russia.

November 15 marks the Day of the Imprisoned Writer. In 1981, PEN International designated this day to express support for incarcerated writers. Annually, national PEN centers and their international partners commemorate this day to highlight the unjust incarceration of writers in various countries. According to PEN Belarus’s calculations, at least 38 men and women of letters are in detention in Belarus. The total sentence handed down was 238 years of imprisonment or freedom restriction.

Torture, cruel, inhuman, degrading treatment

Since 2020, Viasna human rights defenders have registered more than 1,850 survivors of torture and other prohibited treatment. In the video produced by Viasna, Hanna, a student and activist, Artsiom Zadrutski, a former political prisoner in the “Zeltsar case,” and Yaraslau, convicted for the largest demonstration in Belarus’s history, discussed the use of torture and ill-treatment during detention and in Belarusian correctional facilities.

Human rights defenders receive detailed information from survivors of ill-treatment and arbitrary deprivation of liberty regarding the circumstances of the cases.

Former political prisoners have reported that the prison administration has arbitrarily restricted their ability to make up for the widespread lack of food by shopping in the commissary.

The report, entitled “How Survivors of Torture and/or Ill-treatment Perceive Justice,” was prepared by human rights activists from Viasna HRC and Legal Initiative. It focuses on how Belarusians who faced state violence during and after the 2020 mass protests perceive justice. The document is a unique three-part study of justice, including legal analysis, psychological aspects, and sociological data.

Twelve prominent human rights organizations have released an open letter expressing support for Lithuania’s referral to the Office of the Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC). The letter calls on ICC member states to join Lithuania’s appeal to investigate crimes against humanity allegedly committed by the top leadership of the Lukashenka regime.

Degeneration of the Bar. Harassment of lawyers

The Bar continues to serve the interests of the regime. In an interview with the state news agency BelTA, Aliaksei Shvakau, chairman of the Belarusian Republican Bar Association, highlighted the legal work of lawyers in various enterprises and educational institutions on one of the “most pressing issues for the public” — the upcoming presidential election. He noted that “lawyers not only explain the basic norms of legislation but also draw attention to the responsibility of everyone for their vote.”

During the election period in Minsk, representatives of the Minsk City Bar Association are available to provide free consultations in the public reception offices of the Minsk city and district organizations of the Belaya Rus Association. When visiting the offices, “citizens are encouraged to express their support for Aliaksandr Lukashenka as a candidate for President of the Republic of Belarus by signing for him.”

During workplace awareness-raising activities, lawyers provided “guidance on the administrative and criminal responsibilities associated with violations of public order and security.”

During the three months of autumn 2024, the Qualification Commission under the Ministry of Justice terminated the licenses of four lawyers: A. Marozau, Yu. Marozau, M. Seviaryn, and E. Rozavaya.

The current situation at this pivotal institution of the state’s legal system is adversely impacting the rights of individuals requiring specialized legal counsel and robust protection of their rights. The loss of independence for the Bar has a detrimental impact on lawyers’ ability to manage professional risks, erode trust, encourage self-censorship, and ultimately lead to a decline in the overall professional standard.

Harassment of journalists and media workers

As of November 30, 36 journalists and media professionals have been incarcerated.

As of the end of November, it was announced that the Škloŭ District Court would commence proceedings on December 11 regarding a new criminal case of the imprisoned journalist and blogger Ihar Karnei. Karnei was sentenced to three years of imprisonment in March of this year. Judge Aliaksandr Tarakanau will consider the case. The journalist has been charged under Part 1, Article 411 of the Criminal Code (persistent disobedience to the demands of the prison administration). It has been confirmed that the Škloŭ Correctional Facility No. 17 administration has placed the journalist in the Secure Housing Unit on multiple occasions. Thus, he will be subjected to a criminal trial for violations the administration has already admonished him. The political prisoner faces another year of imprisonment.

Violation of the freedom of peaceful assembly. Suppression of freedom of expression

It is concerning that Belarus persists in failing to comply with international obligations to respect, protect, and ensure the realisation of the rights to freedom of peaceful assembly and expression. Protesters and dissidents are subjected to prosecution both in person and in absentia, with serious violations of fair trial standards.

On November 6, the Leninski Borough Court of Brest handed down sentences to Artur Trushko, Vadzim Kutasevich, and Alina Novikava under part 1 of Article 342 of the Criminal Code (active participation in actions that grossly violate public order). Judge Dzmitry Shuryn considered the case. Brest Regional Court published the verdict in a press release, as noted by the Brest Viasna chapter. The judge sentenced Artur Trushko and Vadzim Kutasevich to one year and six months each. Alina Novikava will be subject to two years of home confinement.

The Luniniec District Court held hearings on October 28 and 31 to consider the criminal case of Artur Molchan and Artur Kanapatski under Article 370 of the Criminal Code (desecration of a state symbol). Judge Sviatlana Bratanava found the defendants guilty and sentenced each to six months of imprisonment. The trial was conducted in an extramural session, with students from Polytechnic and Agrarian Colleges in attendance. Molchan and Kanapatski were immediately taken into custody. As reported by the Brest Viasna chapter, the men were convicted for removing the national flag from a store building in the agricultural settlement of Dziatlavičy in 2021 and subsequently burning it. 

On October 8, 46-year-old Aliaksandr Akakiyeu’s trial was held in Rahačoŭ District Court. He was accused of insulting A. Lukashenka (part 2 of Article 368 of the Criminal Code). The Homieĺ Viasna chapter has announced that Judge Iryna Pradun has handed down a one-year and six-month prison sentence to Aliaksandr.

Viasna HRC also presented an overview of the number of individuals convicted since 2020 for insulting and libeling A. Lukashenka and a detailed account of the most unconventional reasons for prosecution under these articles.

Persecution masquerading as combating extremism and terrorism

The legislation on tackling extremism and terrorism in Belarus is used exclusively for politically motivated persecution of citizens for the exercise of their civil and political rights. Furthermore, it is an instrument of state terror, in particular for the creation of formal prerequisites to justify arrests and prolonged imprisonment.

Including various entities in the List of Organizations, Formations, and Individual Entrepreneurs Involved in Extremist Activities provides the basis for pursuing legal action against individuals for their involvement in or contribution to these activities. In November, four items were added to the List. Over three years, 246 relevant decisions were made by the KGB and the Interior Ministry (the first decision dating back to September 21, 2021). Among the recently identified “extremist formations,” the “Order Neighborhood Coalition” stands out. The large-scale detentions that occurred in Belarus in late September, affecting at least 200 individuals, were allegedly connected with this group.

In November, 120 individuals, including 37 women, were added to the List of Citizens of the Republic of Belarus, Foreign Nationals or Stateless Persons Involved in Extremist Activities. The list of new names includes human rights activist Alena Masliukova, who has been convicted in absentia, and public activists Veranika Tsapkala and Volha Karach, who are described as serving their sentences. However, all three live abroad. There are currently a total of 4,714 names on the List. Individuals placed on the List for an extended period (the duration of the criminal record and five years after its expungement) are subject to limitations on their rights.

Following 107 court decisions, the Republican List of Extremist Materials has been updated to include Telegram channels, YouTube and TikTok channels, social media pages, and other sources and media outlets identified as extremist. The dissemination of “extremist materials,” usually broadly defined by Belarusian security services and courts, can result in detention or a substantial fine. This encompasses a wide range of actions that are not explicitly prohibited by law or may be subject to prosecution under the Administrative Violations Code. Sharing a few banned links on social media becomes grounds for indefinite administrative detention – consecutively for each of the saved or “circulated” links.

According to First Deputy Information Minister Andrei Kuntsevich, the List contains 6,565 materials and has been maintained and updated since September 2008. The Viasna Legal Service provided an analysis of how information products can be deemed extremist following a court decision.


Source: Human Rights Center "Viasna" 

For the First Time, Lukashenko's Crimes Addressed at the ICC Assembly of States Parties 

Dec 02, 2024

Opening remarks by the Head of the National Anti-Crisis Management, Pavel Latushka at the side event "The Belarus Situation at the ICC: ICC Jurisdiction and the Need for State Party Support" held during the 23rd Session of the ICC Assembly of State Parties

December 2, 2024, The Hague

Dear Head of the International Representation of the Ministry of Foreign Justice of Lithuania Mr. Dzikovic, Representatives of ICC States Parties.

Dear organizers and speakers, dear guests, 

First and foremost, thank you for attracting attention to Belarus and the crimes committed by its authorities inside and outside of the country. I believe that this is the very first event ever dedicated to the Belarusian situation at the Assembly of States Parties to the International Criminal Court.

It has been 4 and a half years since Belarus became an arena of mass atrocities… 4 years of grave international crimes, such as mass torture, inhuman and degrading treatment, rapes and other forms of sexual violence, enforced disappearance, arbitrary imprisonment and murder…

All these atrocities occur in a climate of total impunity for the perpetrators.

The authorities in Minsk have created an awfully efficient machine for mass persecuting and repression of those perceived as "disloyal". This regime has developed and implemented a whole state policy of persecution, introducing  legislation aimed at discriminating against those perceived as disloyal in order to, as Aleksandr Lukashenko has repeatedly stated himself, to “clean the Belarusian society”.

The created atmosphere of fear, terror and persecution forced about 300,000 people to flee their homeland. This means every thirtieth resident left Belarus. They were simply left with no other choice. We consider all of them as victims of the crime of deportation, a crime against humanity.

However, the Belarusian authorities did not stop at expelling part of the population beyond the borders of Belarus; they have continued to persecute Belarusians abroad.  

Those abroad and in exile were subjected to:

We believe that these actions cumulatively amount to the crime against humanity of persecution, committed extraterritorially by high officials of the regime against Belarusians in exile.

Therefore, on September 30, Lithuania was the first country that, following the ideals of international justice, has exercised its right under Article 14 of the Rome Statute and referred the situation of transborder crimes against humanity of senior officials of the Lukashenko authorities to the Office of the Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court.

One of the most important questions today is:

Will other countries join Lithuania's referral in the future?

Practice shows that other state parties joining the referral is important for the success of this process.

We therefore call on our partners - especially Poland and Latvia, who have provided a safe haven to the majority of Belarusian refugees - to join Lithuania’s courageous referral, strengthening these accountability efforts. And I truly believe that this excellent expert discussion today will provide the attendees with convincing arguments.  

I thank you!


Source: NAM

Why the EU Must Stand With Belarus

Dec 02, 2024

Belarus is a European country. Its people share the same values as those in Warsaw, Paris, and Berlin — freedom, dignity, and self-determination. The streets of Minsk, Hrodna, and Viciebsk echo the aspirations of countless Belarusians who risked their lives in 2020, protesting peacefully for a democratic future. They made their choice: they want Belarus to be a free and independent country.

Yet today, Belarus is at the crossroads. While supporting Ukraine, we must not forget about Belarus. Will it remain trapped under the thumb of a dictator serving Russia’s imperial ambitions? Or will it chart a new course toward Europe and democracy? This question is not just about the future of Belarus—it is also about the future of Europe itself. A democratic Belarus will be key to securing long-term peace and stability in Eastern Europe. 

EU support to the Belarusian people

Since 2020, the European Union has demonstrated its unwavering support to the Belarusian people. The EU has imposed several sanction packages on the Lukashenka regime, targeting those responsible for repression of opposition and civil society and human rights violations. These sanctions have hit key sectors of the Belarusian regime’s economy, which fuels both the repression at home and the criminal war against Ukraine.

The EU has also continued supporting the Belarusian people. It has provided over €140 million in assistance to Belarusian civil society, independent media, and human rights defenders. It has opened its doors to Belarusians fleeing persecution, offering visas and international protection to those in need. As of 2022, more than 400 000 Belarusian citizens reside in the EU. This support has been critical in keeping the democratic movement alive, even under brutal repression. In addition, the EU has pledged €3 billion for a peaceful democratic transition in the future.

What Needs to Be Done? 

The EU needs to maintain and strengthen this twofold policy: isolate the regime and support the Belarusian people.

A European Future for Belarus

Most importantly, we must show the Belarusian people a clear vision of a European future. Belarusians must know that one day, when they are ready, the door of the EU will be open to their country as well. 

The EU’s support for a democratic Belarus is more than just a moral commitment—it is a strategic necessity. A democratic Belarus would help secure peace and stability in the region, weaken Russia’s grip on Eastern Europe, and improve the security of  Europe as a whole.

The Time is Now

Belarus is not just a neighbouring country—it is part of our European story. The EU will remain steadfast in its support for the Belarusian people, and their aspirations for a democratic and independent Belarus as part of a peaceful and united Europe. 

By Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, Leader of Democratic Belarus, and Josep Borrell, High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs


Source: Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya

Polish Court denied Lukashenka regime’s request to extradite Belarusian activist Dmitry Pleskachev

Nov 29, 2024

On November 28, the District Court in Poznań ruled against the extradition of Belarusian activist Dmitry Pleskachev after determining that the request from the Lukashenka regime was politically motivated.

“Extradition would have been a blatant violation of international law. We are grateful to the Polish authorities for their consistent support in upholding democratic values and protecting the rights of Belarusians”, commented Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya’s Advisor on Legal Affairs, Leanid Marozau, following the court’s decision.

Notably, a representative of the Polish Public Prosecutor General’s Office also declared the extradition request from the Lukashenka regime unlawful.

The refusal to extradite Mr. Pleskachev was made possible by the coordinated efforts of the democratic forces of Belarus and the Polish lawyer representing Dmitry in court. Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya’s Office (OST) had been informed about the case in advance by the Representative for Social Issues of the United Transitional Cabinet, Volha Zazulinskaya, and the human rights organization Dissidentby. The OST’s Legal Team provided Dmitry with the necessary support and assistance and attended the court hearing.


Source: Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya

Belarus’ democratic forces and Canadian government launched strategic consultations in Ottawa

Nov 27, 2024

The first session of strategic consultations between the government of Canada and the democratic forces of Belarus took place in Ottawa, resembling the Strategic Dialogue previously established with the United States. The decision to hold these consultations was made during Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya’s meeting with the Foreign Minister of Canada, Mélanie Joly.

The consultations will aim to:

📌 Develop joint positions and priorities for cooperation in key areas;

📌 Increase the efficiency of support programs and align them with the needs of Belarus’ civil society.

The first session focused on the following areas:


Representing the Belarusian side were Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya and her Office, Vladzimir Astapenka of the United Transitional Cabinet, members of the National Anti-Crisis Management, BelPol, and Belarusian journalists from independent media outlets. The Canadian side was represented by government officials, including from the Foreign Ministry, as well as department directors specializing in sanctions and international justice.

Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya: “These consultations mark a new chapter in the relations between Belarus and Canada. Together, we will work toward the release of political prisoners, support for independent media, and a stronger Belarusian civil society. Next year, as Canada will assume the G7 Presidency, we hope that Belarus will remain a priority on the agenda”.


Source: Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya

Statement by Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya’s Office on Vasil Verameichyk’s extradition from Vietnam

Nov 21, 2024

Vasil Verameichyk, a citizen of Belarus who formerly fought in the Kastus Kalinouski Regiment, has been extradited from Vietnam. Mr. Verameichyk participated in the 2020 protests in Belarus, after which he moved to Ukraine, where he served as the Deputy Commander of the Volat Battalion. In 2024, having completed his service, he was elected to the Coordination Council and co-founded the Association of Belarusian Veterans.

Vasil Verameichyk’s extradition is a direct consequence of the repressive policies pursued by the Lukashenka regime as it continues to target opponents and extend repression to the international level. Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya’s Office insists on the urgent need to strengthen international human rights mechanisms to protect not only Belarusians fleeing persecution but also the people defending Europe’s future by fighting alongside Ukraine.

We call on the international community to:

Given the potential operations of the Lukashenka regime’s security services, we strongly urge all Belarusians living abroad to exercise extreme caution and vigilance. To minimize the risk of your extradition, consult the website pashpart.org and verify which countries may be unsafe for Belarusians facing persecution by the regime.


Source: Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya

“For lasting peace in Europe, we must liberate Belarus not only from dictatorship but also from Russia’s clutches”

Nov 20, 2024

During her visit to Vienna, Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya attended an event hosted by the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe, which brought together ambassadors and diplomats representing OSCE member states, as well as members of parliamentary groups “For a Democratic Belarus”.

Ms. Tsikhanouskaya addressed key issues concerning Belarus that the OSCE should keep on its agenda:

“There will be no lasting peace in the region without a democratic Belarus. If the Lukashenka regime’s rule had ended in 2020, the full-scale invasion of Ukraine by Russia might not have happened. Thus, the struggle for change in Belarus is not just a domestic issue”.

“Our independence and existence are under threat. Negotiations to end the war in Ukraine might begin soon. I fear that Belarus could be handed over to Putin as a consolation prize”.

“On January 26, Lukashenka will hold a so-called ‘election’, with no real candidates, no vote counting, and no observers. Former candidates remain imprisoned, alongside thousands of other Belarusians. Hundreds of thousands are in exile and deprived of their voting rights. After this farce, the Western policy toward Belarus must remain unchanged”.

“We have developed a contingency plan, including what actions we will take and what the international community should do when a window of opportunity opens. The democratic forces will be ready to steer Belarus onto a European path of development. But this will require OSCE mediation and support”.


Source: Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya

Support for political prisoners in Belarus, scholarships for students, guidance for migration authorities on Belarusians’ cases

Nov 20, 2024

During her visit to Estonia, Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya met with the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Margus Tsahkna, Minister of Education and Research, Kristina Kallas, Minister of Culture, Heidy Purga, and Minister of the Interior, Lauri Läänemets.  

With the Minister of the Interior, Lauri Läänemets, Ms. Tsikhanouskaya discussed the following issues:  

Discussions with the Minister of Education, Kristina Kallas, focused on:  

With the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Margus Tsahkna, Ms. Tsikhanouskaya discussed:

With the Minister of Culture, Heidy Purga, discussions covered:  

Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya also presented the Cross of Good Neighborhood – the highest award of the democratic forces of Belarus – to Estonia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Margus Tsahkna. 


Source: Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya

At least 1,213 sentenced in administrative cases: repression intensifies in Belarus ahead of presidential elections

Nov 15, 2024

The next presidential elections in Belarus, which will be held on January 26, 2025, are accompanied by traditional repression. Armed security forces invade the homes of dozens of people every day. People are brutally detained; some are beaten and tortured. The situation before the new elections is only getting worse. At least 1,213 political administrative cases were heard in the courts from September to mid-November. The vast majority of trials were related to "spreading extremist materials." Mass detentions are taking place all over Belarus, even in small towns. Viasna reports how the authorities are "cleansing" the country of "extremists" before the 2025 elections. 

Preventive "cleansing" of activists before the elections is a traditional practice of the regime. But now those who read independent media even if the news article concerns health, listen to Belarusian "extremist" bands, or express solidarity with political prisoners are persecuted. The brutal repression has not stopped for a single day since the start of the election campaign in 2020, but now the situation is only getting worse. Viasna human rights defenders analyzed how, compared with the summer months, the number of political trials in administrative cases increased in September, October, and the first half of November.

In total, over the past two and a half months, human rights defenders have recorded 1,452 cases of repression (detentions, searches, administrative trials, etc.). During this period, Belarusian judges heard 1,213 cases under Article 19.11 of the Administrative Code (distribution of extremist materials) and Article 24.23 of the Administrative Code (unauthorized picketing): 488 in September, 537 in October, and 188 in the first two weeks of November. At the same time, only 975 cases were heard during the three summer months. We note that all the figures may be significantly higher because human rights defenders do not have all the information about the repression.


There are more cases of persecution in the regions of Belarus than in Minsk. Thus, the most repressive region is Homieĺ — at least 337 people were convicted administratively. At least 98 people were sentenced in Rečyca alone. Brest region is in second place. At least 278 trials occurred there, most of which were heard in Brest. It is there that those who are detained at the border upon their return to Belarus are tried. In addition, residents of Baranavičy are also being tried en masse — 56 cases. Numerous cases are also heard in Barysaŭ, Vaŭkavysk, Hlybokaje, Dobrush, Žlobin, Liepieĺ, Mazyr, Navapolack, Orša, Pinsk, and other cities.

During the last known mass raid by security forces on October 31 and November 1, several dozen people were detained throughout Belarus. KGB officers came to people as part of criminal proceedings initiated under Article 357 of the Criminal Code (conspiracy or other actions committed with the aim of seizing state power). It is known that some detainees were questioned about neighborhood chats. On November 4, the KGB recognized some neighborhood chats as "extremist formations" — presumably, this was the reason for the mass detentions.

If you have faced politically motivated persecution, have been convicted in an administrative or criminal case, or have been prosecuted in a temporary detention facility, please inform human rights defenders via Telegram @Viasnainfo. Help us record all the facts of repression to show the world the scale of the human rights disaster in Belarus!


Source: Human Rights Center "Viasna" 

First Known Cases of Alien Passport Issuance for Belarusians in Sweden and Austria

Nov 13, 2024

Belarusians living abroad have faced significant challenges in renewing their documents since the Łukašenka regime ceased consular services in September 2023. This decision forced thousands into a difficult position, as returning to Belarus for document renewal posed risks of repression, social media scrutiny, and potential criminal prosecution for opposition-related activities.

Efforts by the People’s Embassies of Belarus to negotiate with foreign governments have begun to provide solutions. Recent reports from Sweden and Austria confirm the first known cases of Belarusians being issued alien passports—an important step in addressing this ongoing issue.

Sweden: First Documented Case of Alien Passport Issuance

In March 2024, the Swedish Migration Agency introduced a policy allowing Belarusians officially residing in Sweden to obtain alien passports instead of returning to Belarus to renew their documents. The decision aimed to protect those fearing repression in their homeland.

Although the policy has been in effect since spring, the first documented case of a Belarusian receiving an alien passport in Sweden was reported this week. The People’s Embassy of Belarus in Sweden hopes this case will encourage more eligible individuals to use this opportunity, highlighting the system’s potential effectiveness.

Austria: Two Confirmed Cases of Alien Passport Issuance

In Austria, two Belarusians have now received alien passports—the first reported cases of their kind in the country. Previously, Belarusians could renew their passports at the Belarusian embassy or, in rare cases, apply for refugee status if they could prove persecution. With consular services no longer available, Austria has started issuing alien passports to those who can demonstrate risk in returning to Belarus.

Austrian authorities have clarified that applying for international protection is not a prerequisite for receiving an alien passport. While applicants must prove the danger of returning to Belarus, the process for alien passports is less intensive than that for refugee status. Initial rejections are possible, but applicants are encouraged to appeal, with the People’s Embassy of Belarus in Austria providing advisory support.

A Positive Development for Belarusians Abroad

While there may have been undocumented cases earlier, these first known examples in Sweden and Austria show that alien passports are a viable solution for Belarusians unable to renew their documents. The People’s Embassies in both countries continue to advocate for expanded access to these passports, especially for groups such as students or those who have lived abroad for fewer than five years.

For further assistance, contact:

 • Sweden: sweden@belarusabroad.org

 • Austria: austria@belarusabroad.org


Source: People's Embassies of Belarus

Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya addressed Belarusians on anniversary of Raman Bandarenka’s death

Nov 12, 2024

Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya: “Raman Bandarenka died four years ago – and I clearly remember that day. The horror and outrage over this tragedy resonated in the hearts of every Belarusian. Raman’s murder is not a sorrow borne by one family; it is a shared pain that we all carry within us.

What happened that night, sadly, is not an isolated crime. People have vanished without a trace in Belarus for decades as the regime took revenge on them. In the 1990s, it eliminated politicians, military officers, activists, and journalists brave enough to speak the truth. They took their lives simply because they dared to challenge the dictatorship and stand up to Lukashenka. Sadly, the regime and its accomplices still essentially rely on violence to retain power.

Every day, we witness new arrests and political persecution and hear harrowing stories of imprisonment and torture. Repression never stopped; it has become a terrifying part of daily life, continuing to rob the freedom and lives of those who dare to defend their beliefs. Every political prisoner, every victim of the regime, represents a shattered family, grieving parents, spouses, and children. In the past four years alone, the regime has killed or tortured to death at least 18 people.

We cannot forget the people who have died because of the regime’s persecution. This memory is not only about the past but also a reminder that these crimes persist. We must seek justice and do everything possible to prevent such tragedies from happening again”.