News

“We can’t give Ukrainians military equipment or millions of dollars. But we can advocate for Ukraine at international arena”

Oct 17, 2024

Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya was interviewed by Kyiv Independent during the Warsaw Security Forum, speaking about Belarus’ way to democracy and explaining why a free Belarus could be part of the solution to the crisis.

As one of the key messages in the conversation, Ms. Tsikhanouskaya called for helping Ukraine achieve victory. The leader focused on what can be done now:

“We can’t give Ukrainians any assistance. We can’t give military equipment or millions of dollars. But we can advocate for Ukraine at the international arena and explain why it’s absolutely vital and necessary to give Ukrainians everything they need to win this war. We can support the Ukrainian army, and our Belarusian volunteers are fighting shoulder-to-shoulder with Ukrainians. And also we can explain how the fate of Belarus and Ukraine are interconnected and that we can’t solve one issue without another because Russia doesn’t see Belarus or Ukraine as independent states. They see us as their colonies”.

Watch the full interview at the link.

In September, at least 170 people were convicted in criminal political cases

Oct 17, 2024

In September, the courts of Belarus continued to pass sentences against citizens for political reasons. In September, according to preliminary data, 170 people were convicted, 46 of whom were women and 124 men. Viasna traditionally reports the specifics of the criminal prosecution last month.

61 people were convicted in Minsk in September

The prosecution in different regions in September looks as follows:

Minsk — 61 people;
Brest region — 44 people;
Homieĺ region — 20 people;
Minsk region — 25 people;
Mahilioŭ region — eight people;
Viciebsk region — nine people;
Hrodna region — three people.

Persecution of families

In September, the persecution of entire families or groups of relatives continued under the Article 342 of the Criminal Code. In Dziaržynsk, the cases against Iryna and Andrei Shaikouski, as well as Aliaksandr and Tatsiana Hryshkevich, were heard. The case of Aliaksei and Liudmila Paulovich was heard in the Maskoŭski District Court of Minsk. In the Leninski District Court of Brest, spouses Henadz and Hanna Vasiliuk were sentenced to two and one years of imprisonment, respectively. The Leninski District Court of Mahilioŭ sentenced Leu Iuchyn to two years of restriction of freedom without referral to a correctional facility, whose father, Valer Iuchyn, three months earlier, was sentenced to two and a half years of restriction of freedom with referral to an open-type correctional facility by the same court.

In September, 12 people were convicted again

In September, the trend of repeated conviction of citizens previously persecuted for political reasons continued. The Viciebsk Regional Court, in conjunction with the previous sentence, sentenced the leader of the independent trade union Naftan, Volha Brytsikava, to six years of imprisonment under articles on "calls for sanctions", "incitement to hatred", and "assistance to extremist activities". Earlier, she was sentenced to three years of imprisonment by the same court under the article on incitement to hatred.

The Leninski District Court of Brest sentenced Henadz Vasiliuk under Article 342 of the Criminal Code to a total of two years of imprisonment. In February of this year, the man was convicted by the Maskoŭski District Court of Brest under the article on "slander against Lukashenka." The Homeĺ Regional Court handled the case against Leanid Kozyr under articles on "financing the activities of an extremist formation" and "participation in an armed formation on the territory of a foreign state." Two years ago, the man was convicted by the Tsentraĺny District Court of Minsk under the article on insulting a representative of the authorities.

The Peršamajski District Court of Minsk sentenced Zmitser Dashkevich to one year and three months of imprisonment on charges of participating in group actions grossly violating public order and disobeying the requirements of the correctional facility administration. Over the past two years, the defender of Kurapaty (an area of NKVD executions on the outskirts of Minsk) has faced several criminal cases under each of these articles in the Maskoŭski and Peršamajski district courts of Minsk, as well as in the Barysaŭ District Court.

Yury Averkau, convicted in June of this year by the Kiraŭ District Court under the article on insulting a representative of the authorities, was repeatedly prosecuted in the Mahilioŭ Regional Court under articles on "incitement to hatred" and "mass riots".

In September alone, eight cases of conviction of previously persecuted citizens under Article 411, which stipulates the possibility of extending a sentence for "disobeying the requirements of the administration of a penal colony." In addition to Zmitser Dashkevich, who was tried under this article, the following people were also tried:

Aleh Yafremenka and Apanas Afanasenkau in the Barysaŭ District Court;
Uladzimir Tsyhanovich in the Mazyr District Court;
Raman Marusau in the Leninski District Court of Mahilioŭ;
Andrei Budai in the Court of Babrujsk District and the Babrujsk City.
Siarhei Ramanau was sentenced to two years of imprisonment by the Horki District Court;
Tamaz Pipiya was sentenced by the Navapolack Court to one and a half years of imprisonment.

46% of the accused were prosecuted under Article 342 of the Criminal Code

The majority of politically motivated criminal prosecutions are based on criminal cases under Article 342 of the Criminal Code. 46% of the people who were subjected to repression in September had been accused under this article.

At the same time, the way this article is used has regional differences — in Brest, the Brest region, and Biaroza, under this article, courts mainly try groups of people. At the same time, in Pinsk, the citizens are prosecuted individually — seven people were convicted in this city in September alone.

Summary of Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya’s visit to Germany

Oct 16, 2024

On October 14-15, Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya was on an official visit to Germany. She had political meetings in Berlin and joined events discussing the prospects for a democratic Belarus and its European integration.

During her visit, Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya met with the Minister of Economy and Vice-Chancellor of Germany, Robert Habeck, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Annalena Baerbock, Minister of Education, Bettina Stark-Watzinger, Minister of Justice, Marco Buschmann, Vice-President of the Bundestag, Yvonne Magwas, the Bundestag group “For a Democratic Belarus”, and representatives of the association of Belarusians “Razam”. The meetings focused on comprehensive support for Belarus and its democratic forces.

Ms. Tsikhanouskaya emphasized the following issues:

📌 Support for political prisoners. The leader thanked Germany for supporting political prisoners in Belarus, providing humanitarian aid, and disbursing 1.5 million euros for the rehabilitation of repressed individuals;

📌 Visas and mobility for Belarusians. Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya called for more multiple-entry and long-term Schengen visas for Belarusians;

📌 Youth support and educational programs. The Belarusian leader emphasized the need for expanded educational programs, especially within DAAD, for Belarusian students and researchers, as well as free visas for youth;

📌 Sanctions against the regime. Discussions focused on closing loopholes in the sanctions to ensure they target the Lukashenka regime rather than ordinary Belarusians;

📌 Lithuania’s referral of the Lukashenka regime’s crimes to the International Criminal Court. Germany expressed its support for Lithuania’s initiative to hold the regime accountable.

In addition to political meetings, Ms. Tsikhanouskaya delivered opening remarks at the Berlin Belarus Future Forum, which brought together leading German politicians, experts, and activists. Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya also received the prestigious Schwarzkopf Europe Award, recognizing her contribution to the fight for democracy and human rights in Belarus.

As a symbolic part of the visit, Ms. Tsikhanouskaya attended the opening of the exhibition “UNBREAKABLE” at the Stasi Museum, dedicated to Belarusian human rights defenders and activists imprisoned for their activities.

Pavel Latushka called on OSCE member states to support Lithuania's appeal to the International Criminal Court (ICC)

Oct 10, 2024

"Since 2020, Belarus has become a stage for mass atrocities and large-scale international crimes. The regime has committed widespread torture, inhumane and degrading treatment, rape, and other forms of sexual violence, enforced disappearances, arbitrary imprisonment, and killings. All these atrocities are taking place with complete impunity for the perpetrators, forcing hundreds of thousands of Belarusians to flee the country", said the Deputy Head of the United Transitional Cabinet and Head of the National Anti-Crisis Management (NAM), Pavel Latushka.

A side event was held in Warsaw as part of the Warsaw Human Dimension Conference on the topic "Mobilizing the OSCE Moscow Mechanism to Examine the Forced Displacement of Belarusians and Their Extraterritorial Persecution", organized by NAM.

Opening the event, Pavel Latushka expressed his gratitude to the Lithuanian government for submitting information on the situation in Belarus to the Office of the Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC) to investigate crimes against humanity committed by the Lukashenko’s authoritarian regime against Belarusians. "Fear and persecution have forced hundreds of thousands of Belarusians to leave their homeland, abandoning everything — life, home, loved ones. More than 300,000 people have fallen victim to the crime of deportation. This step by Lithuania is crucial for Belarusians on the path to restoring justice and breaking the vicious cycle of terror", noted Pavel Latushka.

The presentation was organized by the National Anti-Crisis Management in cooperation with the Human Rights Center "Viasna" and the International Committee for the Investigation of Torture in Belarus. It was attended by diplomats from the UK, Germany, Italy, Lithuania, France, Sweden, and other OSCE member states, as well as representatives of diplomatic missions in Warsaw, the Polish Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Belarusian, Polish, and international human rights organizations. Several victims of the Lukashenko’s regime gave testimonies during the event.

The event focused on presenting an analysis of the potential of the OSCE Moscow Mechanism to examine the forced displacement of Belarusians and their extraterritorial persecution. This issue has gained particular relevance in light of Lithuania's recent appeal to the International Criminal Court to investigate transnational crimes against humanity committed by the Lukashenko’s authoritarian regime against Belarusians.

"We are grateful to our Belarusian colleagues from the National Anti-Crisis Management, the human rights organization 'Viasna', and other partners for their assistance in gathering, summarizing, and presenting data to the ICC Prosecutor's Office. We invite all interested EU countries that have ratified the Rome Statute to officially join Lithuania's appeal", said Lithuania’s Chargé d'Affaires in Poland, Audronė Markevičienė, during the presentation.

"I believe that continued joint efforts by OSCE member states to comprehensively study and assess the deportation and extraterritorial persecution of Belarusians will encourage countries to join Lithuania's appeal to the ICC and help ensure justice for every victim", emphasized NAM Head Pavel Latushka.

The National Anti-Crisis Management will continue its systematic work aimed at supporting ICC member states in backing Lithuania's appeal.

Source: NAM

Human rights situation in Belarus. September 2024

Oct 08, 2024

Summary:

The prevailing climate of politically motivated repression has a significant impact on the human rights and fundamental freedoms situation in Belarus. As previously noted, there is a continued risk of politically motivated criminal prosecution for those who have participated in protests, expressed views on the political situation in the country or regarding regime officials, or who have provided support to protest-related organizations.
Since the summer of 2020, the human rights community has identified 3,531 individuals as political prisoners, 627 of whom are women. As of September 2024, Belarus had 1,317 political prisoners, including 169 women. The human rights community recognized 46 people as political prisoners during that month. A further 19 former political prisoners were identified as requiring rehabilitation, due to the lack of prior awareness of their identities among human rights activists.
The Viasna Human Rights Center has several members currently serving sentences in correctional facilities. These include Nobel Peace Prize winner Ales Bialiatski, vice-president of the International Federation for Human Rights (FIDH) Valiantsin Stefanovic, Uladzimir Labkovich, Maria Rabkova, volunteer Andrei Chapiuk, and Human Constanta human rights activist Nasta Loika;
It is known that several political prisoners have been held incommunicado for long periods. Among them are Maksim Znak, Maria Kalesnikava, Viktar Babaryka, Mikalai Statkevich, Siarhei Tsikhanouski, and Ihar Losik, who have been deprived of contact with the outside world for more than a year and are restricted in communicating with fellow inmates.
The arbitrary repression of citizens for exercising their civil rights persists. In September, Viasna received information about at least 429 cases of politically motivated repression resulting in criminal and administrative prosecutions, with at least 176 administrative cases being considered by courts.
The authorities are continuing to expand the lists of individuals and organizations involved in extremist and terrorist activities, as well as extremist materials.
In the context of the 57th session of the UN Human Rights Council, an interactive dialogue was held with a group of independent experts on the human rights situation in Belarus (following HRC Resolution 55/27). Viasna provided an overview of the discussions held by independent experts, the Belarusian delegation, and human rights activists, as well as the support received from various states.
On September 30, the Government of Lithuania formally submitted a referral to the Office of the Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court in The Hague concerning the alleged perpetration of cross-border crimes against humanity against Belarusians by representatives of the Lukashenka regime. Prosecutor Karim Ahmad Khan stated that his office will conduct a preliminary inquiry to examine the referral under the ICC’s jurisdiction and determine, based on statutory requirements, whether there are reasonable grounds to initiate an investigation.
Viasna human rights defenders still regularly register and document instances of torture and prohibited treatment during politically motivated criminal investigations, as well as in administrative proceedings. The same applies to persecution and imprisonment on political grounds. Detainees are also deprived of adequate medical care.

Politically motivated prosecution. Political prisoners

As of the end of September, the total number of political prisoners in detention centers was 1,317, including 169 women.

Over 2,214 individuals, including 477 women, have been released due to completing their sentence (1,230 individuals), change of restraining order, non-custodial sentence, amnesty, or pardon. Some of them died in prison. This brings the total number of political prisoners and former political prisoners to over 3,500.

It is estimated that there are at least 5,947 political convicts, both imprisoned or punished otherwise, according to human rights activists. However, the actual number is likely higher, as the authorities have been known to conceal the true scale of persecution.

In September, the human rights community recognized 46 people as political prisoners. It also called for the rehabilitation of 19 former political prisoners, whose identities were revealed to human rights activists following their release.

On September 4, it was announced that 30 political prisoners convicted for protest activities were released under Presidential Edict No. 343 on Pardoning Convicts. This group reportedly included 7 women and 23 men. Contrary to law, the cases of pardoned political prisoners were reviewed by the “re-admittance commission” for exiled Belarusians, which is headed by Prosecutor General Andrei Shved.

On September 16, it was announced that 37 additional political prisoners, convicted on protest-related charges, had been released by presidential edict. The group included six women, as well as individuals with chronic illnesses, disabilities, and retirees.

The total known number of political prisoners released by pardon in 2024 is 115. Furthermore, five Ukrainian political prisoners were released in a war prisoner exchange facilitated by the Russian Federation authorities.

There is a continued risk of pressure being applied to political prisoners while they are in detention. As a means of exerting pressure on political prisoners, the extension of their prison terms is actively pursued through additional charges of persistent disobedience to the prison administration (Article 411 of the Criminal Code).

In September, the Pieršamajski District Court of Minsk considered another criminal case against political prisoner Dzmitry Dashkevich. The activist has been charged under Article 342 of the Criminal Code (active participation in group actions that grossly violate public order) and part 1 of Article 411 of the Criminal Code (persistent disobedience to prison administration). It is noteworthy that the “disobedience” charge was incorporated during the proceedings pertaining to Article 342 of the Criminal Code. Consequently, Judge Anastasia Kulik ruled him guilty and imposed a sentence of one year and three months of imprisonment.

It was revealed last month that Viktar Snehur, a defendant in the “Autukhovich case” and a political prisoner, had been convicted under part 2 of Article 411 of the Criminal Code. The precise date of the trial and the court’s decision remain undisclosed. On October 11, 2024, Minsk Regional Court will consider the appeal against the verdict. The trial will be overseen by Judge Aleh Lapeka.

Political prisoner Maksim Matyrka was convicted under Article 411 of the Criminal Code for “persistent disobedience to prison administration.” He was transferred to Horki Correctional Facility No. 9 to serve his sentence. The Horki District Court considered the case of Maksim’s transfer to a high-security prison on September 10. Judge Alena Shliakhtsitsava presided over the trial.

A new criminal case was opened against political prisoner Siarhei Ramanau. According to the “Right to Revolt” Telegram channel, on September 25, the political prisoner was found guilty under Part 2 of Article 411 of the Criminal Code, and two more years of imprisonment were added to his original term. Importantly, in March 2023, Ramanau had already been incarcerated for 11 months under the aforementioned article. Siarhei, who was released from the Secure Housing Unit in May after a six-month stay, was transferred back to the facility in July for a five-month period. There has been no communication from the political prisoner for over a month.

The trial of political prisoner Tamaz Pipiya commenced on September 5 in Navapolack. He was charged under part 2 of Article 411 of the Criminal Code. The judge, Tatsiana Khrypach, handed down a sentence of one year and six months in prison, in addition to the five-year term previously imposed.

In September, the investigation pertaining to the third case under Article 411 of the Criminal Code against Palina Sharenda-Panasiuk was concluded. It has been confirmed that the woman was transferred from the temporary detention center in Rečyca to the pre-trial detention center in Homieĺ. When relatives called the facility to inquire about the health of the political prisoner and the possibility of sending a care package, they were informed that Palina had been placed in a disciplinary cell for ten days, according to a report from the Brest Viasna chapter. Her woman is scheduled to begin on October 14.

Political prisoner Mikalai Dziadok, sentenced to five years in prison, was due to be released from prison on April 25, 2025, but a new criminal case under Part 1 Article 411 of the Criminal Code was opened against him.

On September 27, the Leninski District Court of Mahilioŭ held a hearing on the criminal case against political prisoner Raman Marusau, who had been previously transferred to a high-security prison. The case was considered under part 2 of Article 411 of the Criminal Code. The trial was held by Judge Tatsiana Rakhmanenka, but the verdict is still unknown.

In total, according to human rights defenders, at least 86 political prisoners have been transferred to high-security prisons as of September 11, 2024, and new criminal cases under Article 411 of the Criminal Code have been filed against another 51. A minimum of 137 political prisoners have been subjected to more stringent detention conditions for violating the internal regulations of penitentiaries. Viasna reported on the methods of punishment used by correctional facility administrations against political prisoners and how one becomes a “persistent violator of the prison routine.”

The families of political prisoners, as well as individuals who have assisted such prisoners, are subjected to politically motivated persecution. The primary motivation behind the surge in searches, interrogations, and detentions on January 23, 2024, was the assertion by intelligence agencies that they were assisting the families of political prisoners with food parcels through the INeedHelpBY initiative. Most of those who have been persecuted are women and relatives of political prisoners. Some of the individuals were administratively punished for “using foreign aid to carry out extremist activities” under Article 24.15 of the Administrative Violations Code. Additionally, several dozen individuals were prosecuted for “promoting extremist activities.” Viasna knows of approximately 30 individuals who are currently remanded in this case. In September, at least 16 women were tried for solidarity with political prisoners. The defendants stand accused of “promoting extremist activity” under part 1 and part 2 of Article 361-4 of the Criminal Code. After a period of seven months, Viasna revealed the outcome of the January raid and the prosecution for solidarity with political prisoners.

Belarusians returning to Belarus from abroad continue to get detained. According to data available to Viasna, at least 55 individuals have been detained upon returning to Belarus since the beginning of 2024, with criminal charges filed against 17 of them. It should be noted that the figure may be significantly higher than indicated due to the lack of complete data.

On September 20, the Leninski District Court of Mahilioŭ handed down a sentence under part 1 of Article 342 of the Criminal Code against Leu Iuchyn. The court imposed a two-year home confinement sentence and a $367 fine. Leu was detained on his return from abroad.

For more than three years, Viasna activists Ales Bialiatski, Valiantsin Stefanovic, Uladzimir Labkovich, Marfa Rabkova, and Andrei Chapiuk have been imprisoned for their human rights activities.

For the fourth time this year, Ales Bialiatski celebrated his birthday in prison. A solidarity action was held near the Embassy of the Republic of Belarus in Vilnius on September 25 to mark the 62nd anniversary of the human rights defender. On the occasion of his birthday, several international and Belarusian organizations from a variety of sectors, along with public activists, politicians, and journalists, extended their best wishes.

Nasta Loika, a Human Constanta activist, is currently in custody as a result of her human rights work. It has been reported that in late September, Nasta was transferred from the Homieĺ Correctional Facility to the Minsk Remand Center No. 1 to participate in the trial of activists accused of political crimes.

Four years ago, on September 17, 2020, Marfa Rabkova, a political prisoner, human rights defender, and Viasna member, was arbitrarily detained. To this day, she is unlawfully incarcerated. On the fourth anniversary of her detention, the Observatory for the Protection of Human Rights Defenders (FIDH-OMCT) and Viasna reiterated their call for her immediate and unconditional release, as well as for the release of the other four detained members of Viasna and all human rights defenders arbitrarily deprived of their liberty in Belarus.

On September 30, the Homieĺ Regional Court commenced proceedings against human rights activist Alena Maslukova, a Viasna representative. She is facing charges under part 1 and part 2 of Article 361-4 of the Criminal Code (promoting extremist activity). However, the precise nature of the allegations remains unclear, even to the human rights activist herself. The case is being considered in camera and in absentia by Judge Siarhei Bahinski.

At least seven defense lawyers are imprisoned on political grounds.

Torture and ill-treatment

Political prisoner Ihar Alinevich has been placed in a punishment cell once again. This means he is being detained in inhumane conditions with no communication with the outside world. He was on a hunger strike and ended up in the hospital during his last stint in the punishment cell.

Maria Kalesnikava, a political prisoner who was hospitalized while at the correctional facility a year ago for surgery, is in a critical condition. 175 cm tall, Maria now weighs just 45 kg and is underweight and malnourished due to the lack of appropriate dietary conditions in the facility.

In July 2024, it came to light that Palina Sharenda-Panasiuk was afflicted with “moderate chronic pancreatitis,” a highly dangerous ailment that presents significant challenges in terms of treatment, particularly within the constraints of a prison environment. The relatives were informed of the diagnosis by the official response of the administration of Correctional Facility No. 24, where the woman had recently served her sentence. In September, Andrei Sharenda, the husband of a political prisoner stated the significant decline in Palina’s health. She is experiencing acute abdominal discomfort, yet there has been no provision of medical care beyond the administration of analgesics.

Newly released photos and videos of Yury Ziankovich, who has been imprisoned for two years, show the political prisoner to be in a severely malnourished and exhausted state.

Kiryl Ivanou, who has epilepsy, provided details of his traumatic experience during his detention in the fall of 2023. He was subjected to physical abuse, including beatings and the use of a stun gun.

Aliaksei Kireyeu, a former political prisoner who has completed his sentence, has revealed the consequences of his time in Correctional Facility No. 15, which he described as inhumane. He lost 15 kilograms in weight and suffered a loss of vision in one eye.

Political prisoner Yahor Eustratau, who has completed his prison sentence, provided a detailed account of the harsh conditions of his detention.

“During the arrest, officers from the anti-terror unit utilized pump-action shotguns with rubber pellets. The majority of the shots were directed at me, but I am aware that they also struck other individuals. I needed to get medical attention, so they took me to the hospital before transferring me to the detention center”;

“We were lying on the ground and every so often they would come up to look at us. It was all a bit like a spectacle for them. Some had bleeding on their arms, others elsewhere... Then we got pepper sprayed in the face. Then someone came in who looked like the head of the operation. He went around and named four men. They were picked up and taken somewhere. Actually, they were the undercover police officers.”

He described the inhumane conditions in Remand Center No. 1:

“There are 12 beds, and there were 14 of us in the cell. Two were up at night, but then they could catch up on sleep during the day.”

Regarding the punishment cell in Correctional Facility No. 1:

“The punishment cell is an individual destruction weapon in the facility. All conditions are created to undermine human health. If someone was beaten in the facility, it necessarily took place in the punishment cell, away from the eyes of hundreds of convicts.”

Another former political prisoner recounted his experience of being detained during a peaceful demonstration in October 2020. He sustained a head injury as a result of the disproportionate use of force by riot police.

A former political prisoner who served a sentence at the Babrujsk Correctional Facility No. 2 described the conditions in the punishment cell and Secure Housing Unit as follows:

“The environment is consistently damp and cold. It makes sleeping at night impossible, especially during the offseason. You’re bracing yourself for sleepless nights in segregation. You can’t sleep during the day either, because they’ve installed video cameras everywhere. The offseason is hell. Inevitably, your health is ruined, because everyone gets sick there: fever, hemorrhoids. People don’t come out of there healthy because it’s cold and drafty.”

Violation of freedom of association

On September 16, the KGB recognized the Belarusian National Youth Council (RADA) as an extremist formation. Allegedly, the association “carries out extremist activities from abroad and represents an umbrella organization uniting more than 30 youth organizations and initiatives working on Belarusian issues.” This places all those engaged in legitimate activities on behalf of the youth organization at risk of criminal prosecution.

The mass forced termination of NPOs continues. According to Lawtrend, losses in the public sector of Belarus, starting from the post-election period of 2020, have amounted to at least 1,777 institutionalized forms of non-profit organizations (public associations, trade unions, political parties, foundations, non-state institutions, associations, religious organizations).

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

There were no signs of slowing down in the number of criminal prosecutions for exercising the rights to freedom of peaceful assembly and freedom of expression. In September, courts continued to impose sentences under Article 342 of the Criminal Code for participation in post-election protests.

Viasna is aware of at least 28 individuals who have been prosecuted for actively participating in actions that grossly violate public order (Article 342 of the Criminal Code).

On September 12, the Brest District Court handed down sentences of restriction of freedom and imprisonment to 11 individuals for their participation in the August 10, 2020 protest.

Whole families are prosecuted. The Leninski District Court of Brest has handed down a prison sentence to Hanna and Henadz Vasiliuk for their participation in the protests on August 10, 2020. At the time of sentencing, Henadz was incarcerated for committing a crime under Article 367 of the Criminal Code (libel against Lukashenka).

On September 5, the Biaroza District Court announced the second recent sentence for participation in the protest on the night of August 10-11, 2024 in the city. Four individuals — Mikalai Kulak, Ihar Yaumenau (Kulia), Andrei Rybakou, and Viktar Daniliuk — were sentenced to one and a half years in prison each under Part 1 of Article 342 of the Criminal Code (active participation in actions that grossly violate public order). The case was considered by Judge Ludmila Rudzina. This information was provided in the Brest Viasna chapter.

Administrative persecution

In September, Viasna received information regarding 429 cases of politically motivated repression resulting from criminal and administrative persecution. Of these cases, 176 were considered by courts. 130 cases were considered under Article 19.11 of the Administrative Violations Code (for dissemination of information materials designated by the authorities as extremist).

Please note that the results of administrative prosecutions and the number of detentions related to criminal and administrative prosecutions are frequently not communicated to human rights defenders or are delayed due to the prevailing atmosphere of fear and the threat of further reprisals. The data cannot be evaluated as an indicator of changes in the level of repression, particularly over short periods and without consideration of the evolving circumstances surrounding the collection of information.

Harassment of journalists and media workers

As of September 30, 33 journalists and media professionals have been incarcerated.

On September 3, Alena Tsimashchuk, a journalist previously employed by Green Portal, Brestskaya Gazeta, and Brestskiy Vestnik, was included in the List of Organizations and Individuals Involved in Terrorist Activities. She was charged with “discrediting Belarus” (Article 369-1 of the Criminal Code), “inciting other social discord or enmity” (Part 3 of Article 130 of the Criminal Code), and being a member of an “extremist formation” (Part 3 of Article 361-1 of the Criminal Code). On June 3, 2024, the Brest Regional Court found her guilty and imposed a total sentence of five years of imprisonment and a fine of $14,000. The case was considered by Judge Dzmitry Karasinski.

On September 16, Andrei Tolchyn, who was sentenced on March 21, 2024 to 2 years and 6 months imprisonment on charges of libeling the President of the Republic of Belarus (Article 367 of the Criminal Code) and promoting extremist activities (Article 361-4 of the Criminal Code), was released on pardon.

On September 26, the Pinsk City and District Court commenced proceedings in the criminal case against Yauhen Nikalayevich, who is accused of committing a crime under part 1 of Article 342 of the Criminal Code. Yauhen was previously arrested on August 10, 2020, while performing his professional duties. On the day of detention, he was physically assaulted by police officers in the restroom of the Pinsk City Executive Committee building and the police wagon.

Violation of rights and freedoms under the pretext of combating extremism and terrorism

Legislation designed to combat extremism and terrorism is being employed by the Lukashenka regime as a means of politically motivated persecution of political opponents and dissidents, to impede their ability to exercise their civil and political rights.

In September, two items were added to the List of Extremist Formations. Over the course of three years, a total of 239 relevant decisions were made by the KGB and the Interior Ministry (the first decision dating back to September 21, 2021).

In September, 101 individuals, including 22 women, were added to the List of Citizens of the Republic of Belarus, Foreign Nationals or Stateless Persons Involved in Extremist Activities. There are currently a total of 4,476 names on the List.

Following 87 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 identified as extremist.

Furthermore, the Supreme Court of Belarus designated the Kastus Kalinouski Regiment as a “terrorist organization” last month. The decision in question was made following a referral of Prosecutor General Andrei Shved.

“UN is a good platform where you can meet not only your allies but also the countries who might be useful to your cause”

Oct 07, 2024

During her working visit to the United States, Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya was interviewed by Voice of America. She spoke on why participation in the UN General Assembly was important for the democratic forces of Belarus and what international support they were seeking.

📌 “We are looking for world leaders who can somehow assist us with these questions. People in Belarusian prisons are dying. This is the most painful topic for us in the democratic movement. And I think countries who still have some relationship with this regime can assist us in solving the humanitarian crisis”.

📌 “Lukashenka wants to sell the release of about 100 people as an act of humanity. But it has nothing to do with this. I think this release is connected with the pressure imposed on Lukashenka’s regime. They want to have the sanctions lifted”.

📌 “Our task is to make sure that the policy of our democratic allies will not change toward Belarus. We are looking for ways to release political prisoners for humanitarian reasons. We are looking for countries and organizations that can be mediators on this issue”.

📌 “We want to use international mechanisms – the ICC [International Criminal Court], ICJ [International Court of Justice] – to bring Lukashenka and his cronies to account, though these instruments are rather slow, honestly speaking. But we are consistent in our approach, and hopefully, a special investigation against the crimes will start very soon”.

📌 “Our ultimate goal is to release political prisoners, hold free and fair elections. But before this, of course, we have to weaken the regime as much as possible and strengthen national identity, civil society, and democratic forces, to have a smooth and fast transition period”.

“Poland’s Foreign Ministry officially supports referral of Lukashenka regime’s crimes to ICC”

Oct 03, 2024

On October 3, the United Transitional Cabinet held a press conference in Warsaw regarding Lithuania’s referral of the Lukashenka regime’s crimes against humanity targeting Belarusians to the International Criminal Court. Pavel Latushka, Aleh Kulesha, and a representative of the Helsinki Committee joined Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya.

In her speech, the Belarusian leader applauded the referral, adding that neighboring countries have suffered significantly from the regime’s actions and are determined to seek justice. She also called on other countries to support Lithuania and submit similar referrals.

Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya: “We fully support Lithuania and urge the governments of other countries to send official letters to the International Criminal Court calling for an investigation into the regime’s crimes. Yesterday, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Poland officially supported Lithuania and the referral it sent to the ICC. Poland, Lithuania, as well as Latvia and Ukraine, have suffered the most from the regime’s actions and are keen to see the dictator finally held accountable. Ukraine officially joined the Rome Statute a month ago. This means that if an investigation is launched or an arrest warrant is issued, Ukraine will also be obligated to comply with it. This is particularly important in the context of Lukashenka’s regime’s involvement in the war against Ukraine”.

The train carrying Lukashenko to The Hague has departed. Nothing can stop it now

Oct 01, 2024

Speech by Ambassador Pavel Latushka, Deputy Head of the United Transitional Cabinet of Belarus, Head of the National Anti-Crisis Management at the press conference on legal responses of the international community to the crimes against humanity committed by the current authoritarian regime of Belarus.

Madam President-elect, Madam Deputy Minister, Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen.

375 days, almost a year, have passed since we first formally met with the Madam Deputy Minister and Head of International Legal Representation of the Ministry of Justice of Lithuania and discussed the possibility of making this Referral.

Today, we are here, in the Hague. The Referral is in the Office of the Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court. On the International Criminal Court website, a short remark appeared from Prosecutor Karim Khan that “he can confirm that his Office will conduct a preliminary examination to examine the request”.

A short phrase with immense meaning. What does it conceal?

First of all, lives, suffering, and losses of hundreds of thousands of victims. Having gone through the terrifying steamroller of repression in Belarus, torture, rape, imprisonment, deprivation of fundamental rights. Having no other choice. They fled their homeland seeking refuge in Lithuania, Poland and other countries. They left their parents, children, friends, never being able to see them again. They left their property, starting their lives anew.

And now, having gone through all this, the targeted population was subjected to a new wave of repression. The regime continued to persecute us abroad with monstrous efficiency. Judicial harassment, arrests of relatives and friends, hate speech, threats of violence, intimidation, confiscation and destruction of property in Belarus. This is only part of what Lukashenko and his accomplices are doing in European countries today

Secondly, for 4 years, Belarusians lived in a state of complete doom. Our people, having gone through the hell of losses for peaceful defending of democratic values, feel abandoned and forgotten.

However, today, hundreds of thousands of victims have received hope for justice. Hope that one day, the perpetrators will be prosecuted.

Thirdly, an incredible job has been done. By the Ministry of Justice of Lithuania, by lawyers and experts whose names I cannot name. In fact, they have created a new precedent. For the first time in the practice of the ICC, a state party to the Rome Statute has referred the situation to the Office of the Prosecutor in a state not party to this Statute.

The work done required exceptional professionalism, creativity and courage.

Me and my team thank Lithuania, the Ministry of Justice, personally Deputy Minister Gabia Grigaitė and Head of International Legal Representation Richard Dzikowicz, for their amazing work.

I would like to thank our lawyers and my team, the National Anti-Crisis Management, Deputy of the European Parliament Dainius Zalimas and his organization Justice Hub as well as foreign experts who initiated this process in April 2023. 1.5 years of daily work. And this is the result.

Thank you Mrs. President-elect Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya for your support.

And also a special thanks to the organizations that are part of the IAPB, I would like to especially note the Human Rights Center Viasna and the International Committee for Investigation of Torture in Belarus.

This day will go down in history.

In the history of Belarus – because this is the first and today the most important step towards achieving justice for the Belarusian people, for hundreds of thousands of victims of crimes against humanity committed by the dictator Lukashenko and his accomplices.

This day will go down in history. In Lukashenko's personal history, or, more precisely, the personal criminal case of the dictator, who will go down in history as an international criminal.

And now it is the fourth decade when Lukashenko is building his regime of repression and violence. And the formation of this regime is really close to its “highest point”. Think about it – in a country with a population of 9 million people the dictator has already committed hundreds of thousands of crimes against humanity.

Lukashenko has created a whole state policy, as he says, “to clean” the society. All the population perceived as disloyal by his regime is subjected to a conveyor of atrocities. Society is divided into loyal and disloyal. Lukashenko constantly calls the Belarusians, who are subjected to repression, as “fugitives”, “political”, “sharp-hoofed”.

But the time has come for justice and fairness. It is your time, Lukashenko, to be held accountable for these crimes. It is time for the rule of law to prevail over the rule of force.

I want to address the highest ranks of his regime.

Lukashenko's train Minsk - The Hague departed today. Lukashenko is already on it. And he will reach his destination. There are no other options now. No way back for Lukashenko. The process of justice set in motion is irreversible.

We call on all democratic countries to join and support the process of restoring justice that has been launched by Lithuania. And to take similar actions to give maximum speed to the Minsk-Hague train.

I am sure we do not have excessive expectations of our partners, but a request to use your capabilities to bring Lukashenko and his accomplices to justice.

Lukashenko has always dreamed of going down in history. He succeeded. And he will never get rid of it. All history textbooks will remember him not as the first president, but as the last Belarusian dictator and international criminal.

And I want this to be heard not only by him, but also by his circle, his closest civil servants, propagandists. Ask yourself, do you want to share a space with him on this train? Do you want to join him in the Hague?

Or maybe it's finally time to make a decision - and get off this train. Not get on it at all. You know what you need to do. You know where to send the information.

I'm sure there are many of you who want it. Some of you were forced to commit the crimes. But you have a chance to help yourselves, your country, Belarusians and justice. Don't miss it. Get in touch.

Lukashenko thought he could “turn the page” of his crimes. No. His “ballad of a dictator” has come to an end. And yes, we'll shut you, Lukashenko, out of big politics. As promised. You're a criminal. Next station is the Hague.

Do you remember the posters people took to the streets in 2020? “Lukashenko to the Hague”, ‘Tribunal’. Did you think that these were just slogans left in the past? No, this is your future.

Today the rule of law prevails. Today we together restore Belarusians' faith in justice. We are writing the history of a new Belarus. Which will begin after the trial of the dictator. An inevitable trial.

We call on all democratic countries to support the efforts of Lithuania. Use your right under Article 14 of the Rome Statute. Make Justice prevail over impunity. That is what all the Belarusian people want. That is what unites all of us. Desire for justice.

I support today's statement by the Head of the United Transitional Cabinet of Belarus, Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya. The ratification of the Rome Statute by the new Belarus guarantees that impunity for international crimes will become impossible in our country. No international criminal will be able to escape accountability in new Belarus.

Жыве Беларусь!

Source: NAM

Referral of Lukashenka regime’s crimes to International Criminal Court

Sep 30, 2024

The International Criminal Court (ICC) has launched an investigation against the Lukashenka regime for repression and torture following the 2020 elections. This is the first time an international judicial institution officially investigates the regime’s crimes. This step is the result of the work of human rights defenders and the democratic forces of Belarus. The evidence has been collected and submitted to Lithuania, who brought the case to the ICC.

The criminal acts in question include:

➖ Deportation. According to the UN, the regime has forced around 300,000 Belarusians to leave the country due to repression, torture, and political persecution;
➖ Persecution of Belarusians in exile, including threats to life and health, politically motivated sentences, confiscation of property, and deprivation of access to public services;
➖ Other inhumane acts.

What outcomes can be expected?

➖ An investigation of crimes and potential punishment of the perpetrators;
➖ Increased international pressure on the regime;
➖ Encouragement for other countries to bring similar cases to international courts.

Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya explains the significance of the case:

“Lithuania’s decision to bring a case to the International Criminal Court against the Belarusian regime is an important step toward justice for Belarus. For more than four years following the rigged 2020 election, Belarusians have been suffering from brutal repression. The crimes committed by the Lukashenka regime must not go unpunished. We believe that with Lithuania and the international community, we will gather enough evidence to hold the perpetrators accountable”.

Belarusians in Cyprus: The Challenges of Emigration and the Struggle for Democracy

Sep 29, 2024

The Republic of Cyprus has become a refuge for more than 5,000 Belarusians who have found a new home on the island. The increase in the Belarusian diaspora numbers grew sharply after the events of 2020. The second wave of diaspora growth began after the full-scale invasion of Ukraine by Russia.

In a large interview to Cyprus Daily News with a representative of the People’s Embassy of Belarus in Cyprus, key challenges faced by Belarusians in Cyprus were discussed, along with possible solutions to overcome these difficulties.

"Cyprus attracts Belarusians with its favorable business environment, stable economy, and high standard of living. The island has become popular among IT, finance, and business professionals due to its open labor market and favorable conditions for doing business. Despite the lack of special support programs for Belarusians, Cyprus remains one of the priority destinations due to its safety and high standards of living.

Due to Decree No. 278, a new problem has arisen for Belarusians in Cyprus: since Cyprus is not part of the Schengen zone, Belarusian citizens with a residence permit on the island cannot travel freely within the EU without a Schengen visa. For many, traveling to other countries is necessary for work, especially if it involves international contacts, as well as to meet relatives. Some Belarusians have not seen their families for several years."

PREMS 149524 BIL 3011 Outcomes and perspectives

Council of Europe publishes guide on helping Belarusians in exile

Sep 27, 2024

The Council of Europe has published a practical guide that aims to help European parliamentarians and politicians provide support to Belarusians in exile in the organization's member states. The document includes recommendations on various aspects of the life of Belarusians abroad and is intended to simplify the process of adaptation and preservation of cultural identity for them.

The 107-page document, prepared by the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE), is entitled "Luxembourg Solutions: Issues and Prospects" and is available in three languages: English, French and Belarusian. The Guide proposes policy steps and recommendations on key issues related to the life of Belarusians in exile, such as legal entry and stay, freedom of movement, access to consular services, educational and professional opportunities, and assistance in developing entrepreneurship abroad. The document devotes significant space to the preservation and promotion of cultural identity.

The Guide is the result of a conference held in Luxembourg in June 2024 and continues the work started in the report "Addressing the specific problems faced by Belarusians in exile", prepared by Paul Galles (Luxembourg, EPP/CD). PACE adopted a corresponding resolution in June 2023, on the basis of which this document was developed.

The guide is also accompanied by literary material "Guide to Belarus / Davednik pa Belarusi", created by the famous Belarusian writer and journalist Sasha Filipenko, whose works have been translated into more than 15 languages. The Council of Europe noted that this material offers a personal and emotional vision of the author, who was forced to leave his country, and conveys his experiences of life in exile.

Original article: reformby.org

Source: NAM

“Sometimes condemning it is not enough – taking action is what matters”

Sep 25, 2024

During her visit to the United States, the Belarusian leader joined a panel discussion at the annual Concordia Summit, held on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly. Together with the former Croatian President, Kolinda Grabar-Kitarović, Ms. Tsikhanouskaya discussed Belarus’ role in regional security, emphasizing that the country should be seen as part of the solution to the crisis.

📎 “Sometimes just condemning it is not enough. Sometimes taking action is critically important. And I believe the democratic world is not fully utilizing its tools to help Belarusians and Ukrainians. It’s about responsibility. It’s about support. It’s about solidarity”.

📎 “Without a free and democratic Belarus, there will be a constant threat to both Ukraine and Western countries. This is why we must view Belarus not only as a problem but also as part of the solution. Because Belarusians are strongly united against dictatorship and Russia’s imperialist ambitions. They are also very united in their support of Ukraine”.

📎 “We need to advance the Belarusian cause. To explain to the world that Russia views Belarus and Ukraine as disobedient children who have no right to choose their own future and whom it wants to drag back into the Soviet past”.

📎 “When people talk about fatigue, here’s what I think. For example, your neighbor’s house is on fire while you’re asleep in yours. Of course, it’s more convenient to sleep in your cozy bed without thinking about what’s happening outside. But if you don’t help your neighbor, the fire will eventually spread to your house”.

Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya met with US Ambassador-at-Large for Global Criminal Justice Beth Van Schaack

Sep 24, 2024

During the UN General Assembly, Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya met with the US Ambassador-at-Large for Global Criminal Justice, Beth Van Schaack. They discussed the regime’s persecution of Belarusians abroad and the risks faced by those returning to their homeland.

Additionally, they discussed:

📎 Holding the regime’s officials accountable for their involvement in repression and human rights violations;

📎 Initiating cases under universal jurisdiction and through international courts.

📎 The situation of political prisoners in Belarus, including those kept incommunicado.

Ms. Van Schaack assured Ms. Tsikhanouskaya that the US will make efforts to hold those responsible for the repression accountable. The Belarusian leader has previously co-authored an op-ed with Van Schaack for The Hill.

«Onion is tasty». Political prisoners work on an onion plantation owned by AfD MP Jörg Dornau

Sep 24, 2024

German businessman and member of the populist party Alternative for Germany (AfD), Jörg Dornau, signed an agreement with the Lida «Center for the Isolation of Offenders» (CIO) and regularly employed Belarusians convicted on political charges to work on his onion plantation near Lida. They were paid around 5 euros per day. As Reform.news found out, the German politician personally inspected the work of political prisoners.

We found one of those «politicals» who sorted onions for Jörg Dornau at the «Cybulka-Bel» company. His name is Andrei (name changed). He is not the only one who was sent from the CIO to do agricultural work, but he was the only one willing to share his story with Reform.news.

«Onion is tasty»

Andrei was detained in February 2024. He was sentenced to 15 days in the CIO for liking a post on social media. Andrei describes the working conditions as follows:

— They took us to a warehouse. February, basement, everyone had different clothing. So, our hands and feet were freezing. Breakfast was at 7:00 AM. We worked until 6:00 PM without food or drink. The onion is tasty.

Andrei says that a contract was signed between «Cybulka-Bel» and the Lida CIO. He notes that the work was not forced. The money earned was meant to cover the costs of being held at the CIO.

— We signed consent for the work every day. If the foreman thought a detainee was working well, he would be paid. The Lida CIO was paid 30 rubles, the detainees around 20. The onions were sorted for the ‘Evroopt’ trading network.

When asked if he had heard anything about the German farmer, Andrei replies:

— I even saw him! Tall, bald man. He came once in his car with German registration. He went into the warehouse where we were sorting onions along with hired workers.

Looking at a photo of Jörg Dornau, Andrei responds:

— Looks like him!

Who is Jörg Dornau?

Jörg Dornau was born in Borna, Saxony. He is 53 years old, has an agricultural education, and is engaged in entrepreneurial activities. In 2016, Dornau joined the far-right pro-Russian party «Alternative for Germany» (AfD). Since 2019, he has been a member of the Saxon parliament, representing the AfD parliamentary group on agricultural policy.

Dornau was also a member of the extremist radical faction of the AfD known as «The Wing».

The German politician made headlines in national German media after it was revealed that he owns the agricultural enterprise «Cybulka-Bel» LLC in Belarus. His farm cultivates onions and other vegetables on several hundred hectares in the Lida district. While conducting business is not prohibited for members of parliament under Saxon parliamentary law, Jörg Dornau concealed his business in Belarus, thus violating his reporting obligations. As a result, in August 2024, the Saxon parliament fined him 20,862 euros.

«Cybulka-Bel»

In Belarus, the German businessman often appeared in state-run Belarusian media, met with high-ranking officials, and enjoyed the patronage of the authorities.

He registered his company, LLC «Cybulka-Bel», in October 2020 in the village of Gudy in the Lida district of the Grodno region. This was precisely when Alexander Lukashenko, with the help of his security forces, was suppressing mass protests against the falsification of the presidential election.

By decisions of the Lida district executive committee, land plots with a total area of 1,555.4 hectares from the RUP «Sovkhoz Lidskiy» were gradually transferred to «Cybulka-Bel» for permanent use.

«Jörg Dornau is the leading specialist in onion cultivation in Germany. Within three years, agrarians from Leipzig expect to produce more than 10,000 tons of onions annually. This means that approximately every fifth onion grown in our country will be from Lida», boasted the newspaper of Lukashenko’s administration, «SB. Belarus Today», in July 2021.

The project’s cost, according to the deputy chairman of the Lida district executive committee, Igor Kvasovka, was estimated at between 4.7 and 6 million rubles (€1,410,000 and €1,800,000).

«In addition to vegetable cultivation and processing, the investor plans to create a full-fledged logistics complex for the storage and processing of products. Forty-five new jobs will be created», wrote the state-run «Lidskaya Gazeta» in January 2021.

It sounds promising, doesn’t it? New jobs!

In addition, «Cybulka-Bel» participated in government procurement procedures. From 2022 to 2024, Jörg Dornau’s company provided the state with soil liming services for acidic soils three times. The total cost of these services amounted to 70,992 Belarusian rubles.

It would have been extremely difficult for Jörg, without knowledge of the language and necessary connections, to run a business in Belarus. He has a partner, businessman Yurij Kunitski, who lives in Germany. German press materials describe him as follows:

«…has been working for many years for the Russian and Belarusian propaganda apparatus, and whose credit reports state: Business relations are not recommended».

This did not prevent him from entering into a joint business with Dornau: 50% of «Cybulka-Bel» is owned by Kunitski. From December 2020 to November 2023, he was also the company’s director, only later handing the position over to Dornau.

In an article from the «Lidskaya Gazeta» dated March 31, 2021, Yurij Kunitski stated that the process of land allocation was being carried out in accordance with existing legislation. «The staffing issue is also being addressed. The team is gradually growing. At present, we are recruiting machine operators to carry out the work. Overall, the company plans to employ up to 50 people, including seasonal workers» the newspaper wrote.

«Taking this opportunity, I would like to thank the district and regional leadership for their trust. We were given the green light» Kunitski said.

«Seasonal» Workers

As we can see, Jörg Dornau took a rather unconventional approach to solving the staffing issue at «Cybulka-Bel». He personally inspected the work of Belarusian political prisoners. The German politician knew about and signed documents regarding the «services» provided by an institution where Belarusians are deliberately tortured.

During his visit to Belarus, Dornau remarked:

— Germany is missing out on economic opportunities in a country located at the heart of the new ‘Silk Road,’ serving as a kind of bridge to the Eurasian Economic Union with its more than 180 million consumer population.

Dornau chose not to miss out on the chance for economic cooperation with the country at the heart of the Silk Road and took advantage of the services provided by the Lida «Center for the Isolation of Offenders».

As a reminder, special conditions are created for «politicals» in detention cells: mattresses, pillows, and bedding are taken away. It is forbidden to sit or lie on the beds. Detainees are deprived of all packages. The light in the cell is on 24/7, and they are woken up several times at night. Most cells do not have toilets or sinks — only a plastic bucket in the corner, which must be emptied into a shared restroom in the hallway each morning. Our interviewee Andrei calls these conditions torturous.

In modern Belarus, it is impossible to punish those who exploit the lack of rights of Belarusians. Therefore, the Reform.news team hopes that German society can convey to Jörg Dornau the ethical concerns surrounding the practice of using political prisoners as labor.

Reform.news requested comments from Jörg Dornau, but as of the time of publication, we have not received a response.

Illustration: A prisoner in the Lida CIO. Drawing by Evgeny Lukashevich from the website spring96.org

Source: Reform.news

Belarusian prisons are death traps

Sep 23, 2024

The UN Human Rights Council held an interactive dialogue on resolution 55/27 regarding the interim report of the High Commissioner on the situation of human rights in Belarus in the run-up to the 2020 presidential election and in its aftermath.

The Chair of the Independent Expert Group on the Human Rights Situation in Belarus, Karinna Moskalenko, delivered the opening remarks. She emphasized the worsening human rights situation in Belarus, calling on the UN member states to exert maximum pressure on the Lukashenka regime for the release and full rehabilitation of all political prisoners. Ms. Moskalenko also urged the regime in Belarus to cooperate with the expert group and other UN human rights mechanisms.

The majority of UN Human Rights Council member countries, including EU nations, fully supported initiating the work of the independent expert group on Belarus. Delegates also emphasized the Lukashenka regime’s systematic attacks on civil society, the instrumentalization of the judicial system to suppress dissent, and other aspects of the state’s failure to meet its international human rights obligations.

Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya delivered the closing remarks at the 57th session of the Human Rights Council:

“Over 1,400 political prisoners remain behind bars in Belarus. These are teachers, doctors, journalists, activists. What is their ‘crime’? They spoke the truth and dreamed of freedom.

Many of them are kept incommunicado – without the right to contact the outside world. I haven’t heard from my husband, Siarhei, in over a year. I don’t know if he is alive. We have no news about Mikalai Statkevich, Maryia Kalesnikava, Ihar Losik, and many others. Nobel laureate Ales Bialiatski is not receiving the necessary medical care.

This is psychological torture – not only for them but also for their families.

Belarusian prisons are death traps. Five political prisoners have already died in custody since 2020, including Ales Pushkin and Vitold Ashurak. We cannot wait for more deaths.

I urge the United Nations to act. Demand an end to the practice of incommunicado detention. Demand access to medical care and family contact for all political prisoners. This is not just a political issue – it is a matter of life and death.

I call on world leaders to make the release of political prisoners a priority. Speak out. Use your influence. Impose sanctions on the perpetrators. Together, we can stop this terror and bring hope back to Belarus”.

Risks of return: criminal cases and detentions at the Belarusian border

Sep 23, 2024

According to Viasna, since the beginning of 2024, more than 55 people have been detained upon their return to Belarus, 17 of whom have been prosecuted. At the same time, the figure may be significantly higher due to human rights defenders not having complete data. Both Belarusians and citizens of other countries, most of whom are Ukrainians, go through special inspection at the border. Subscriptions to independent media, saved photos from protests on your phone or social media, national symbols and even stamps in your passport confirming visits to Ukraine can become a reason for interrogation or detention. If a person is in the BESporiadki database, containing the data of all detainees after the start of the protests in 2020, then there may be no obvious grounds. People are interrogated, their phones are checked, some are handcuffed right on the bus, and others are visited a few days later. Viasna provides up-to-date information about the persecution of people who return to Belarus from abroad.

Human rights activists remind that if you participated in post-election protests, donated to Belarusian initiatives or organizations, left comments on the Internet, supported political prisoners with parcels or money, then it is dangerous to return to Belarus.

Detentions and interrogations

Since the beginning of 2024, more than 55 people have been detained while crossing the Belarusian border, according to estimates of Viasna human rights activists, half of them were prosecuted under administrative articles. But note that this figure may be much higher due to the lack of complete data.

The reason for the persecution may be photos from protests in 2020, donations, comments on social media, "extremist" reposts, photos with white-red-white symbols that are found on phones and social media, photos from solidarity actions abroad. Security forces find these on social media when checking phones at the border. Those who are included in the BESporiadki database which has the data of all detainees after the start of the protests in 2020 go through interrogations.

At the same time, in addition to detentions, those who enter the country are interrogated every day. Human rights activists know that customs officers or the KGB also pay attention to stamps confirming visits to Ukraine in the passport. It is also known that thorough checks of all Ukrainians crossing the Belarusian border are continuing. Eyewitnesses say that they can take more than six hours if there are several Ukrainian citizens on the bus. Some who say they are going to Russia are forced to buy a plane ticket from Minsk right at the border.

Checks and detentions are carried out at all working checkpoints with the European Union, including at the border with Russia. Security forces disembark Belarusians from regular buses, meet them at bus or railway stations, or come to their homes after their return. If the detention takes place right at the checkpoint, then the person is usually placed in the nearest police department before the trial, where a report is drawn up against them.

Administrative prosecution

The trials of people detained on the border of Belarus with the EU countries are held monthly. Most cases are handled in the Voraŭnaski District Court and the Leninski District Court of Brest. Most often, people are fined heavily, and some are detained for several days. Reports are usually drawn up for the "dissemination of extremist materials."

For example, the father of a minor child was convicted in Voranava on May 3. He was found guilty under Article 19.11 of the Administrative Code and was fined 1,200 rubles (more than 330 euros).

Pay attention! Human rights activists remind that persecution in Belarus have been taking place daily for three and a half years. If you have been socially and politically active since 2020 to this day: you took part in protests in Belarus and abroad, left comments on social media, donated to support victims in Belarus or Ukraine, were active in a neighbourhood chat, which you left a long time ago, once posted on Facebook a new music video of your favourite Belarusian band whose songs have been recognized as extremist, the risks of persecution upon return to Belarus are very high. Please take care of your safety, and also do not forget about your relatives and friends whose messages or photos from the protests can be found on your phone.

Illustration: fernandocobelo.com

“This is not just a crisis – it’s a national catastrophe – and a situation where the UN must intervene”

Sep 23, 2024

Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya commenced her visit to the United States by participating in a debate on political prisoners on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly, organized by the EU Delegation together with Estonia, Lithuania, Spain, Germany, and France. Diplomats and representatives from more than 30 countries attended the debate, with the foreign ministers of Lithuania and Estonia, the state secretaries of France and Germany, as well as ambassadors from several other countries delivering speeches.

In her address, Ms. Tsikhanouskaya emphasized the catastrophic situation in Belarus, urging UN intervention. She proposed the following practical steps:

Urging the UN Secretary-General and the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights to raise the issue of political prisoners with Lukashenka.
Demanding that the UN Office in Belarus or humanitarian organizations gain access to political prisoners.
Exploring diplomatic channels for prisoner exchanges, similar to the Krasikov case or the exchange of POWs with Ukraine.
Initiating UN Security Council Arria-formula hearings to discuss Belarus, addressing both security and humanitarian aspects.
Raising the issue of political prisoners in UN debates and resolutions, demanding their release and rehabilitation.
Discussing the issue of political prisoners with or within the OSCE and ODIHR at the upcoming Human Dimension Conference in Warsaw next month.
Supporting the International Accountability Platform for Belarus to hold perpetrators to account and the International Humanitarian Fund to support the repressed.
Making any cooperation with the regime conditional on practical changes, including the release of political prisoners and the cessation of repression.
Engaging the regime’s partner countries that have leverage and can contribute to the release of political prisoners.

Crush or be crushed

Sep 23, 2024

Why a policy of realpolitik towards Alexander Lukashenko’s regime is doomed to fail

Original article: novayagazeta.eu

“If the Belarusian opposition asked me for advice, I would tell them to agree to anything Lukashenko says in exchange for free parliamentary elections and parliamentary immunity,” Ukraine’s former Interior Minister Yuriy Lutsenko said in a recent interview with independent Belarusian media outlet Zerkalo.

Seeing such statements reminds me how strong faith in democracy is among those who have had the good fortune to see it in practice and to live in a democracy. How incontrovertible it is to people with a well-established democratic way of thinking. And how this belief can sometimes lead to an assumption that you can get regimes diametrically opposed to democracy to agree to a smooth transition to democracy of their own volition and agree to set the process of their own self-destruction in motion themselves.

Meanwhile, Belarus is into its fourth decade of Lukashenko’s dictatorial rule. And in this fourth decade, there are clear signs that the transformation of his regime from an authoritarian dictatorship to a totalitarian one is nearing its completion. Any signs of a loosening of his grip, a thaw, liberalisation or democratisation are conspicuous by their absence.

The Belarusian Doctor of Sociology Henadz Korshunau published the latest section of his Barometer of Repression study at the end of July. It is essential reading for anyone who really wants to understand the current scale of repression in Belarus. It gives us an accurate assessment of the situation based on facts, rather than subjective feelings or assumptions.

In its fourth decade of Lukashenko’s rule, there are clear signs that Belarus’s transformation from an authoritarian dictatorship to a totalitarian one is nearing its completion.

Namely, the number of political prisoners was up, the number of new criminal cases against Belarusians who disagree with the Lukashenko regime is at its highest in the last four years, 50,000 people have been detained since the start of the 2020 election campaign and more than 1,700 Belarusian nonprofits have been shut down since 2021, and these are conservative estimates.

Welcome to the reality of living in a dictatorship, democracy’s alternative reality, where democratic thinking often goes to die. Democratic thinking does not and cannot work in such an alternative reality, as reality in a dictatorship functions according to a completely different set of rules.

The rules are simple and the overriding principle is “crush or be crushed”. And all these years Lukashenko has been busy crushing his opponents, journalists, peaceful protesters or political prisoners. He crushes civil rights, freedoms, civil society and private business — anything that poses an internal threat.

His aggression has long since crossed Belarus’s borders too. In addition to the repression at home, the Lukashenko regime has nothing against external terror either: whether by hijacking a civilian aircraft, launching a hybrid migration war with the EU, sending spies and saboteurs to neighbouring European countries or complicity in the war against Ukraine. Crush or be crushed.

We all saw the invasion of Ukraine from Belarusian territory on 24 February 2022. The massacre in Bucha. More than 800 missile strikes launched from Belarus. At least 3,500 Ukrainian children deported directly by the Lukashenko regime. We see the assistance the Lukashenko regime has provided to Russia in circumventing sanctions. We see the mass transfer of weapons to Russia. We see the production of weapons for Russia by the Belarusian military-industrial complex. And who can forget the redeployment of Russian nuclear weapons to Belarus?

We see attacks on Polish border guards. We saw the murder of a Polish soldier on the border. We have seen sabotage and arson on Polish territory. And, forgive me for a personal take, but at the end of July I testified to the Polish Prosecutor’s Office in a case of incitement to murder. The target was me, and foreign secret services were to be used to take my life.

Yet we still see proposals suggesting we can come to some sort of agreement with Lukashenko. Or make concessions to him. Sadly, some proposals have even come from people who identify as members of the Belarusian democratic forces.

Proposals to recognise the regime as legitimate, to send European ambassadors, to review sanctions, to implement a “flexible policy” and compromise with Lukashenko. The proposals may look like they come from a parallel reality, but that is the reality of Lukashenko’s dictatorship, and the people making them are effectively calling for normalising and accepting the regime.

Despite being capitulation plain and simple, such proposals do have a certain basis in reality and are partly built on the West’s largely ill-defined and indecisive position towards the Lukashenko regime, which can hardly be called a strategy in its current form.

The position would appear to be one of applying pressure on the regime, but not too much. Impose trade sanctions, but don’t create too much of an economic shock. Harmonise sanctions against the Lukashenko regime and Russia for the war — but not completely. Declare at the highest level the need to bring the Lukashenko regime to book for crimes against humanity and war crimes — but don’t carry it through.

And what do regimes like Lukashenko’s see in such a stand? Weakness. A chance to go on committing their crimes, to pursue terror, to unleash aggression. Because the only language they understand is the language of power. They speak no other language. All they see in half-measures and attempts at diplomacy is a manifestation of weakness, room for manoeuvre and an opportunity to up the ante. And they exploit that.

Belarusian opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya on her proposed alternative passport scheme, collective responsibility for the war and beating Alexander Lukashenko at the ballot box

What we are seeing is positional action, a reactive rather than proactive tactic. It is a tactic without a strategy. After all, a strategy implies clearly defined goals, and knowing exactly what you want to achieve. And tactics should bring you closer to that goal, tie into that strategy and actively contribute to it.

What should the West’s basic strategic goal towards Belarus be? I think it’s obvious — democratisation, followed by the integration of Belarus into the European community and European civilisation.

Is that possible while Lukashenko prolongs and cements his dictatorship? Of course not. Is it possible to achieve anything other than his further entrenchment with half-measures and concessions? By recognising the regime as legitimate? By lifting sanctions, absolving him of all legal liability? No, it is impossible. Lukashenko’s 30-year rule is proof positive of that, and objective facts clearly outline the trajectory of the regime’s evolution — a totalitarian dictatorship protected by the empire next door. North Korea 2.0.

You’d be hard pushed to find anyone willing to say that realpolitik as applied to dictators who unleashed bloody wars, mass repression and genocide has ever been a successful “strategy”.

To this end, the realpolitik approach, whose adherents propose compromises with Lukashenko, is no longer just a delusion, the self-deception of idealistic democrats who believe that gradual change in such a dictatorship is possible and that there is so much as a grain of sanity and flexibility within it. It is something else entirely. It is conceding the dictatorship’s right to exist.

But once you concede that a dictator living and ruling on the principle of “crush or be crushed” has the “rule of force”, there is only one conclusion he can draw — that he can be confident both of his power and his impunity.

History knows many such examples. And you’d be hard pushed to find anyone willing to say that realpolitik as applied to dictators who unleashed bloody wars, mass repression and genocide has ever been a successful “strategy”. And we can clearly see where this approach has led as regards Lukashenko. It’s as if we can see but don’t want to notice.

There is a concept of eyes on the prize, but when it comes to a strategy for Belarus, the opposite seems to be the case. Without identifying and setting a goal, it is impossible to move from tactics to strategy. The longer that takes, the longer the Belarusian question remains a bleeding wound.

Source: NAM

On September 19, the Chairpersons of the Foreign Affairs Committees of the Swedish Parliament, Aron Emilsson, and the Belarusian Representative Body Coordination Council, Aliaxandra Mamaeva, met in Stockholm to discuss deepening interparliamentary cooperation between Sweden and the democratic majority of Belarus

Sep 19, 2024

Dmitri Vasserman, the representative of the People's Embassy of Belarus in Sweden, also participated in the meeting.

During the discussion, the two chairpersons explored a number of important issues, including interparliamentary collaboration between the Swedish Riksdag and the Coordination Council, ensuring freedom of movement for Belarusians, and the legalization of Belarusian refugees in Sweden. A crucial part of the conversation focused on how to fine-tune sanctions to maximize their impact on the illegitimate regime and its commercial and repressive structures, while maintaining openness and cooperation with the already oppressed Belarusian population.

Aliaxandra Mamaeva gave Aron Emilsson a detailed overview of the structure and operations of the Coordination Council, along with insights into other institutions within Belarus’ democratic movement. She also provided an update on the situation in Belarus, highlighting the repressive tactics used by the brutal pro-Russian dictatorship against the country's citizens.

The meeting ended with a shared commitment to further strengthening cooperation in support of human rights and democracy in Belarus.

Belarusians show solidarity and self-organization in helping flood victims

Sep 17, 2024

The Belarusian democratic forces and diaspora groups are actively assisting the victims of the flood that has affected several countries in Central Europe, including Poland and the Czech Republic. In this difficult time, Belarusians are showing solidarity and support both within their community and for the affected residents.

The United Transitional Cabinet has organized a hotline to assist Belarusians affected by the floods in Poland and Czechia.

Belarusians themselves are also actively participating in helping those affected by the disaster.

Belarusians in Wrocław (Poland) have mobilized by signing up as volunteers and assisting flood victims in Lower Silesia. An urgent collection of humanitarian aid has been initiated in Warsaw, with people bringing necessary items to collection points across the city.

In the Czech Republic, Belarusians are also joining volunteer efforts. Ryhor Shylin, the father of Varvara, the girl who once donated her drone to Ukraine, is now helping flood victims. At the initiative of the Office of Belarus Democratic Forces in the Czech Republic, Belarusians and Czechs are donating to fundraisers organized by Czech NGOs.

Belarusians living in the flood-affected area are providing information about local needs. For example, Dr. Volha Zharnasek has reported that Šumperk and its vicinity need rubber gloves, shovels, and other items.

“Dear Belarusians, once again, you are demonstrating solidarity and self-organization. When a disaster strikes the countries where you live, you immediately respond, volunteering and raising funds. Thank you for your humanity and empathy. If you have been personally affected by the disaster, please contact us through the hotline, and we will do our best to assist and answer your questions”, comments Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya.

Lithuania will continue to increase pressure on Lukashenko's regime

Sep 16, 2024

The Deputy Head of the Cabinet, Head of the NAM Pavel Latushka held a bilateral meeting with the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Lithuania, Simonas Satunas.

"We will continue to work with the Lithuanian government to increase sanctions pressure on Lukashenko's regime until the regime stops repression, releases all political prisoners, stops the migration war on the border with the European Union, and stops supporting Russia in its aggression against Ukraine", — Pavel Latushka noted after the meeting.

Pavel Latushka informed the deputy minister about:

the main goal of the work of the National Anti-Crisis Management: using the existing international legal mechanisms, to bring the dictator Lukashenko and his accomplices to accountability for crimes against humanity against the Belarusian people and other international crimes;
lack of conditions for conducting competitive and transparent elections in Belarus in 2025. Simonas Satunas noted that if the so-called "elections" in Belarus take place in the same manner as the preparations for them, Lukashenko's regime can expect the next stage of sanctions.

Due to the fact that Simonas Satunas is responsible for sanctions policy at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Lithuania, special attention was paid to sanctions issues at the meeting. Pavel Latushka emphasized that the existing "gaps" between the two dictatorial regimes allow Lukashenko to receive the products necessary to support Russian aggression in Ukraine. The issue of increased control over the implementation of already imposed sanctions and the need for an integrated approach to this issue to prevent the circumvention of sanctions restrictions was also discussed. Simonas Satunas noted that he is in favor of further harmonization of sanctions against Lukashenko's regime and Russia.

Pavel Latushka drew the special attention of the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Lithuania to the ongoing repressions in Belarus. Every day, the regime continues its politically motivated persecution. Dozens of new political prisoners are jailed every month. Arrests of Belarusians returning from abroad continue. Those who provide assistance to political prisoners also fall under repression.

In connection with the fact that the team of the NAM sent a request to the Finance Minister of Lithuania regarding Belarusian cars "stuck" in the port of Klaipeda, the deputy minister presented the position of the Lithuanian side on this issue. The issue of the ban on the entry of vehicles with Belarusian registration into the territory of Lithuania was also touched upon.

"The substantive dialogue with the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Lithuania demonstrates the coincidence of the positions of the United Transitional Cabinet and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Lithuania on fundamental issues of further policy towards the Lukashenko’s regime. During the meeting, they noted not only the importance of sanctions pressure on the Lukashenko’s regime, but also the need for international cooperation in the protection of human rights and democratic principles, as well as the need for separation between the Lukashenko’s regime and Belarusians who oppos war and dictatorship", — Pavel Latushka said.

Source: NAM

The Diplomatic Advisor to Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya’s Office, Dzianis Kučynski, and the representative of the People’s Embassy of Belarus in Italy, Yulia Yukhno, conducted several productive meetings with Italian officials

Sep 15, 2024

They met with members of the parliamentary group Friends of Belarus and Marco Villani, a diplomatic representative from Italy’s Ministry of the Interior.

Key topics discussed included:

— Developing a plan for an international parliamentary assembly involving the "Friends of Democratic Belarus" groups;

— Providing updates on the current situation in Belarus;

— Efforts to secure the release of political prisoners, the condition of Maryia Kalesnikava, and the continued pressure on the regime;

— Issues surrounding the legalization and integration of Belarusians in Italy. Specific proposals were made regarding foreigner passports, cooperation with local law enforcement, and integration programs.

The People’s Embassy of Belarus in Italy also prepared a detailed list of challenges faced by Belarusians in the country.

“We shared this list with our Italian colleagues and are now awaiting further consultations with the Ministry of the Interior to continue discussions and identify tools to address these issues. We hope this meeting will open new opportunities for collaboration and improve the overall situation for Belarusian citizens in Italy,” Yulia Yukhno remarked.

United States will continue supporting democratic Belarus

Sep 13, 2024

Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya met with the US Deputy Secretary of State, Kurt Campbell, during his visit to Vilnius. While she expressed her gratitude to the United States for its support and solidarity, the US representative emphasized that the United States will continue to support the people of Belarus and the democratic community. The parties discussed the following topics during the meeting:

📌 The military and political situation inside the country, including Russia’s use of Belarusian airspace for military operations against Ukraine, and the regime’s supply of arms to the Russian army. Ms. Tsikhanouskaya emphasized that the Belarusian people oppose the war.

📌 International efforts to achieve the release of political prisoners, including the possible additional steps the international community and the United States can take to free political prisoners in Belarus and stop the repression.

📌 Non-recognition of the 2025 “election”. Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya noted that the election will not be transparent, free, or fair, and therefore cannot be recognized by the international community.

📌 Continued Strategic Dialogue between the US and the democratic forces of Belarus. The parties agreed to continue working on several fronts, including political prisoners, media, national identity, and human rights protection, and to hold the next major meeting in the coming months.

📌 Appointment of a US Special Envoy for Belarus. Ms. Tsikhanouskaya stressed that such an appointment would enhance coordination between the democratic forces of Belarus and the United States.

📌 Increased support for civil society and independent media. The Belarusian leader proposed continuing and expanding support programs for independent organizations and initiatives, as well as those persecuted.

📌 Sanctions against the regime. Ms. Tsikhanouskaya called for maintaining sanctions against organizations and individuals involved in repression and facilitating Russia’s war.

📌 Coordinated actions during the UN General Assembly and within the OSCE framework.

Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya: “The United States of America is our key ally and partner. We agreed to unite our efforts for the release of political prisoners and democratic changes in our country. I expressed gratitude for the US’ unwavering support for Belarusian civil society, independent media, and the comprehensive support from American diplomats. I emphasized the importance of distinguishing between the regime and Belarusians, as well as between Belarus and Russia. We cannot allow our country to become a ‘consolation prize’ for Putin following the war. We will continue the Strategic Dialogue with the US and hope to hold the next high-level meeting later this year”.

https://stopsem.churchby.info/

Chronology from the People's Embassies of Belarus about the activities of the Saint Elisabeth Convent [Belarus]

Sep 12, 2024

We would like to share with you that this convent has repeatedly been involved in scandalous stories in 2020, due to its support for state terror against peaceful Belarusian citizens, and now, due to its support for Russia's war in Ukraine.

For dictator Lukashenko, the support of his illegitimate regime by the convent is very important. He went there Christmas time and “defended” them from what he called to be "attacks by a couple of dozen paid people."

The spiritual leader of the Saint Elisabeth Convent, Andrei Lemeshonok, claims that the whole world is against Russia and Russian Orthodox believers. He calls life in the West sinful and godless and says that Russian Orthodox do not need this "free world, where everything is turned upside down." He openly and publicly hopes for Russia's victory and urges everyone to pray for Putin, his puppet Lukashenko, and Russia's ministers of defense and foreign affairs. It’s not surprising that a religious procession at the convent takes place alongside the sober song "Katyusha" and with a Russian flag bearing the letter "Z."

In the autumn of 2022, Belarusian teenagers were trained to assemble and disassemble automatic rifles at the convent.

A group called "Help to the Brothers" was created at the convent, which takes care of requests for the needs of Russian soldiers, including not only clothing, footwear, or medicine, but also funds to purchase items already used in combat: radios, drones, and thermal imagers. Every couple of weeks, sisters deliver the collected items to Moscow, where they are distributed further.

In 2023 alone, the convent participated in the purchase of at least 11 vehicles for Russian troops. In 2024, the fundraising for this type of purchases continued.

Where do they get the money to support the occupiers?

"One of the main income sources of the Saint Elisabeth Convent is the sale of workshop produce from the convent and the resale of Chinese consumer goods abroad under the guise of workshop produce. For decades, employees from the international department, dressed as sisters of mercy and fluent in foreign languages, have traveled across Europe in trucks, selling various souvenirs, books, and religious items in exchange for foreign currency. These sales are accompanied by claims that the funds raised go to social activities and projects of the convent - “to help the underprivileged and those in need in Belarus."

And the best place for sales are fairs, not in Belarus, but in Europe!

In 2022, Belarusian activists in the United Kingdom and Norway managed to cancel the convent's participation in fairs. Nevertheless, in May 2022 and apparently in December 2022, this did not stop the appearance of sisters in those countries. There were also convent tours noted in Florence, Belgium (photo 1, photo 2) and in Poland.

In March 2023, in Sweden, thanks to the efforts of the People's Embassy of Belarus in Sweden, the convent's trade activities were suspended, and information about them and fundraising for the Russian invasion army in Ukraine appeared in many Swedish newspapers and TV channels.

From September 30 to October 2, 2023, a produce exhibition from the convent was held at Saint Nicholas Cathedral (Russian Orthodox Church, Moscow Patriarchate) in Nice. The People's Embassy of Belarus in France promptly informed Ukrainians in Nice about this.

On September 2, 2023, Belarusian activists spotted the convent's tent at an agricultural exhibition in Częstochowa, Poland. An article about this appeared in the newspaper Wyborcza. However, on October 29, 2023, in Warsaw, a trading tent of the convent was spotted on the territory of the Orthodox Church of St. John Climacus. The People's Embassy of Belarus in Poland sent letters to the city councils of these cities and to local media with information about the activities of the convent.

In December 2023, nuns participated in Christmas fairs in Florence and Milan. The People's Embassy of Belarus in Italy sent letters to the municipalities of these cities.

In Slovakia, on January 12, 2024, the convent's participation in a fair was canceled, but on January 28, 2024, nuns were spotted in Berlin.

Despite Ireland’s strong support for Ukrainians, in March 2024, the sisters of the monastery received a warm welcome in Ireland. Moreover, they claimed that the humanitarian aid and money they collect in the monastery are taken to Ukraine as assistance by their representative.

The Irish Ambassador to Poland was informed about this visit. Thanks to contacts from the People's Consulate of Belarus in Scotland, information about the activities of the Saint Elisabeth Convent was also conveyed to Irish MPs.

On March 19, 2024, the investigative media outlet “Bureau” published a major article titled "Holy Accounting: The Business Holding of the Saint Elisabeth Convent," which detailed the laws by which the monastery operates, whose interests it serves, how it earns millions of dollars through “grey” schemes, and what connection Lukashenko's family has to this.

In May of this year, it became known that the monastery sent a letter to Catholic communities in Western Europe denying its involvement in aiding Russian soldiers. At the same time, religious communities in France began to refuse to cooperate with the Saint Elisabeth Convent due to its proven support of Russian aggression against Ukraine.

On June 9, 2024, Sister Nymphadora, responsible for commerce and fundraising in Europe, revealed that the monastery’s messengers are no longer welcomed as warmly as before. Nevertheless, she boasted that they are managing to promote Russian propaganda narratives in Europe, albeit within a limited circle of "loyal friends," some of whom secretly admit that they are "for Putin."

The People’s Embassies of Belarus and Christian Vision are closely monitoring the monastery’s tours, informing politicians, media, and religious organisations in various countries about the activities of the monastery, its support for Lukashenko’s criminal regime’s terror against peaceful Belarusians, and its fundraising for the Russian invasion army in Ukraine.

We call on you to join our campaign and draw Europeans' attention to:

— the activities of the monastery;

— its participation in fairs in European cities;

— preventing further issuance of Schengen visas and trade rights in Europe for the monastery’s employees.

By allowing the monastery to participate in fairs, European citizens unknowingly provide financial support for war and the killing of Ukrainians.

Let’s work TOGETHER to counter this support!

P.S: We would be happy to answer any questions about the activities of the Saint Elisabeth Convent and share relevant information:

chat-bot: https://t.me/PEofBelarus_bot

email: infopoint@belarusabroad.org

You can find all information collated about the monastery’s activities here:

The rule of law is a priority of Sweden's foreign policy

Sep 12, 2024

As part of a series of consultations with foreign diplomats accredited in Warsaw, the Deputy Head of the Cabinet Pavel Latushka met with the Swedish Ambassador Andreas von Beckerath at the initiative of the head of the Swedish diplomatic mission. During the meeting, it was noted that Sweden will proceed from the principle of the rule of law in relation to the regime in Belarus. The speaker of the Coordinating Council Anzhalika Melnikova also took part in the meeting.

Pavel Latushka presented the Swedish side with information about the regime's planned "no-elections", continuation and strengthening of repression against Belarusians, Lukashenko's support for Russian aggression against Ukraine, as well as about the role of democratic institutions and the unity of the majority of representatives of the Dems forces of Belarus, which was emphasized during the "New Belarus" conference in Vilnius.

Separately, Pavel Latushka focused on the priorities of the foreign policy strategy of democratic institutions and the strategy of bringing representatives of the regime to international responsibility for crimes against humanity and war crimes. The Swedish Ambassador was also informed about the international conference "Accountability for the crimes and human rights violations in Belarus", which will be held on September 13 in Vilnius.

The Ambassador assured that Sweden will continue to pursue a proactive policy to support the democratic forces of Belarus, and this approach will not change given the appointment of the new head of the Swedish Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Maria Malmer Stenergard.

The speaker of the Coordination Council, Anzhalika Melnikova, raised the issue of Sweden's migration policy and possible steps to improve the situation with the granting of international protection status to Belarusian refugees. The speaker noted that this is one of the most important tracks that the People's Embassy in Stockholm and the international commission of the Coordination Council are engaged in today.

Anzhalika Melnikova emphasized that the Coordination Council is interested in expanding cooperation with the Swedish Parliament, including the group for a free and democratic Belarus and the Committee on Foreign Affairs, in close cooperation with the United Transitional Cabinet, the Office of Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya and the People's Embassy in Stockholm.

Source: NAM

Human rights situation in Belarus. August 2024

Sep 05, 2024

Summary:

The repression of dissidents and those who express opposition to the regime in Belarus persists, with the level of criminal prosecution remaining at an alarmingly high rate. The prospect of politically motivated criminal prosecution represents an imminent danger to all individuals who have engaged in protests or expressed criticism of the prevailing political circumstances in the country or of regime officials. Those who have voiced their opinions peacefully or supported protests are also at risk.
Since the summer of 2020, the human rights community has identified 3,500 individuals as political prisoners, 627 of whom are women. As of August 31, 2024, there were 1,376 individuals recognized as incarcerated on political grounds in Belarus, including 177 women. In August, the human rights community declared 52 people as such. A further 22 former political prisoners were identified as requiring rehabilitation, due to the lack of prior awareness of their identities among human rights activists.
The Viasna Human Rights Center has several members currently serving sentences in correctional facilities. These include Nobel Peace Prize winner Ales Bialiatski, vice-president of the International Federation for Human Rights (FIDH) Valiantsin Stefanovic, Uladzimir Labkovich, Maria Rabkova, volunteer Andrei Chapiuk, and Human Constanta human rights activist Nasta Loika.
It is known that several political prisoners have been held incommunicado for long periods. Among them are Maksim Znak, Maria Kalesnikava, Viktar Babaryka, Mikalai Statkevich, Siarhei Tsikhanouski, Ihar Losik, and Uladzimir Kniha, who have been deprived of contact with the outside world for more than a year and are restricted in communicating with fellow inmates.
In the four years since August 2020, Viasna has documented over 74,000 instances of repression, encompassing arbitrary detentions, searches, interrogations, and other forms of criminal and administrative prosecution.
The arbitrary repression of citizens for exercising their civil rights persists. In August, Viasna received information about at least 152 cases of politically motivated repression resulting in criminal and administrative prosecutions, with at least 81 administrative cases being considered by courts.
In August, the Viasna human rights activists presented a summary of the results of politically motivated criminal prosecutions that had occurred in July. A notable increase in the number of trials has been observed. Based on preliminary data, at least 170 individuals were convicted during July, comprising 134 males and 36 females. Almost half of the convictions were handed down in Minsk. More than half of those sentenced were convicted for taking part in protests in the year 2020 (Article 342 of the Criminal Code). At least 28 people were convicted in absentia.
The authorities are continuing to expand the lists of individuals and organizations involved in extremist and terrorist activities, as well as the list of extremist materials.
Viasna human rights defenders still regularly register and document instances of torture and prohibited treatment during politically motivated criminal investigations, as well as in administrative proceedings. The same applies to persecution and imprisonment on political grounds. Detainees are also deprived of adequate medical care.
In Geneva, the Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities examined the report of the Belarusian authorities on the implementation of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. The committee highlighted the prevalence of a medical rather than a human rights approach in Belarus, the closure of NGOs, the lack of inclusion of women with disabilities in decision-making processes, the stereotyping of persons with disabilities in the media, the transfer of Ukrainian children from territories temporarily occupied by Russia to Belarus, the situation of refugees on the border between Belarus and the EU, and the practice of non-renewal of Belarusian passports by diplomatic missions abroad. The Committee also observed that the deprivation of legal capacity in Belarus is in contravention of the Convention, that forced psychiatric treatment violates three articles of the Convention, that conditions in Belarusian prisons are not adapted for persons with disabilities, and that many representatives of civil society organizations were unable to attend the meeting due to their detention. The alternative report was presented by human rights defenders, who subsequently met with the Committee.

Politically motivated prosecution. Political prisoners

As of August 31, the total number of political prisoners in detention facilities was 1,376. The group included 177 women and at least 15 individuals with disabilities.

Over 2,100 individuals, including 450 women, have been released due to completing their sentence (1188), change of restraining order, non-custodial sentence, amnesty, or pardon. Some of them died in prison. This brings the total number of political prisoners and former political prisoners to 3,500.

In the four years since August 2020, Viasna has documented over 74,000 instances of repression, encompassing arbitrary detentions, searches, interrogations, etc. In this period, the number of political prisoners has increased a whopping 55.5 times. On August 9, 2020, there were 25 such prisoners. There are at least 6,971 people who are known to be facing criminal charges. In addition, six political prisoners are known to have died in captivity: Aliaksandr Kulinich, Ihar Lednik, Vadzim Khrasko, Ales Pushkin, Mikalai Klimovich, and Vitold Ashurak.

Last month, human rights activists learned of the political imprisonment and recognized 52 people as political prisoners. These included 16 people arrested and detained for exercising their rights to freedom of peaceful assembly and expression (August 7 and August 29 statements); 24 people charged with defamation, incitement to hatred and discord, treason, and other offenses used to selectively and discriminatorily protect government officials, often in closed trials (August 21 and August 22 statements); and 12 people prosecuted for dissent under overly broad and vague extremism legislation (August 23 and August 30 statements).

The human rights community also called for the rehabilitation of 22 former political prisoners, whose identities were revealed to human rights activists following their release.

About 30 political prisoners are known to have been released after completing their prison sentences. This group includes Hleb Ramanau, Ihar Rudchyk, Maksim Razhkou, and Yauhen Kharashkevich. On August 16, a decree was signed granting amnesty to 30 political prisoners. The names of the eight political prisoners on release are yet unknown.

Political prisoner Yauhen Kladau was not released after serving his sentence because he was facing new charges.

Pressure continues on those who remain in detention. For example, Siarhei Ramanau, who had been held in a secure housing unit for six months until May 2024, was returned to segregation in June – for five more months. It is known that Andrzej Poczobut remains in a secure housing unit. Yauhen Afnahel, a European Belarus activist, was transferred to a high-security prison.

As a means of exerting pressure on political prisoners, the extension of their captivity is actively pursued through additional charges of persistent disobedience to prison administration (Art. 411 of the Criminal Code). In August, such charges were filed against Yury Ziankovich, and the trial of Viachaslau Maleichuk commenced. Additional sentences of one year in prison were imposed on Siarhei Dziatsuk, Siarhei Yafimau, and Tsimur Ryzapur. Yahor Ibrahimau was also convicted under this article (the outcome of the trial is not known).

Political prisoners Palina Sharenda-Panasiuk, Maria Kalesnikava, Viktar Babaryka, Uladzimir Hundar, Mikalai Statkevich, Siarhei Tsikhanouski, Maksim Znak, Ihar Losik, and Yauhen Afnahel are still being held incommunicado.

Furthermore, the families of political prisoners are subjected to politically motivated persecution. To illustrate, at least 126 individuals have been subjected to administrative prosecution for receiving humanitarian aid through the social initiative INeedHelpBY. Furthermore, more than 20 individuals are currently in custody on criminal charges for assisting political prisoners. Iryna Takarchuk, Alesia Siarhejenka, Alena Dzemianchuk and Nadzeya Leskavets were sentenced to imprisonment.

Natallia Malets was sentenced to imprisonment for sending commissary money to political prisoners.

Belarusians returning home from abroad continue to get detained. For example, Katsiaryna Bystrakova was arrested upon her return to the country for participating in the 2020 protests.

Persecution of human rights defenders

For more than three years, Viasna activists Maria Rabkova, Andrei Chapiuk, Ales Bialiatski, Valiantsin Stefanovic, and Uladzimir Labkovich have been imprisoned for their human rights activities.

Nasta Loika, a human rights defender from Human Constanta, has been imprisoned for one year and ten months for her human rights work.

At least seven defense lawyers are imprisoned on political grounds.

Torture and ill-treatment

It has been revealed that Maria Kalesnikava, a political prisoner whose relatives have been unable to contact her for an extended period, has experienced a significant loss of weight while in captivity. Based on reports from former prisoners, she now weighs approximately 45 kg and is 175 cm tall. She is restricted from receiving medical care.

It has been observed that special agencies are continuing to force detainees in politically motivated cases to record videos of confessions and apologies ("penitential videos") for subsequent publication in pro-government media.

Political prisoners continue to face pressure and arbitrary placement in punitive isolation cells for extended periods. This means remaining in solitary confinement in degraded conditions and a ban on correspondence or lawyer visits. Human rights activists became aware of the fact that the anarchist Mikalai Dziadok has been in a punishment cell since June. The human rights activist Andrei Chapiuk spent 10 days there, including the day of the planned family visit. Political prisoner Yahor Lebiadok was also punished with 10 days in segregation. Anarchist Ihar Alinevich, who was regularly placed in a punishment cell by the prison administration, went on a hunger strike in June, was admitted to a prison hospital over a stomach ulcer, but then returned to prison.

Former political prisoner Siarhei Monich told about the conditions of detention in the punishment cells in Mahilioŭ Prison No. 4. The poor quality of the food provided and the limited amount of commissary money allowed to spend on food leads to rapid weight loss and generally poor health. It is also noted that the punishment cell is very cold and has no heating.

Former political prisoner Viktar Pantsialeyeu provides an overview of the conditions of detention in the punishment cell at Remand Prison No. 7. The cell measures 1.5 meters by 1.5 meters and contains a toilet in the form of an unfenced hole in the floor, a folding bed, a small table, and a small stool.

Viktar Pantsialeyeu also outlines the conditions of prison escort to court, noting that deliberately inhumane treatment is applied specifically to political prisoners. All transfers are performed in the "swallow" position, with the hands secured behind an inmate’s back and twisted upward while their torso and head are lowered into a semi-bent position.

A woman detained while crossing the border described the conditions of detention for women in the temporary detention center in Brest: the cell is unhygienic and infested with bedbugs, and the toilet is a hole in the floor with no partition. No personal hygiene items were handed out. Meanwhile, women who were detained for failure to pay child support were issued mattresses for the night.

Lack of fair trial in politically motivated cases

By Decree No. 298, Aliaksandr Lukashenka appointed several judges to new positions or new five-year terms, including a large number of those involved in politically motivated prosecutions.

Judges Viachaslau Tuleika, Alena Ananich, Anatol Sotnikau, Ihar Shvedau, Tattsiana Shotsik, Vasil Skok, Stanislau Ivaniutsenka, Aliaksei Khlyshchankou, Ihar Ziamtsou, Volha Dubovich, Anton Dudal, Mikalai Serhiyevich, Andrei Mlechka, and prosecutor Iryna Padkavyrava were included in the new EU sanctions package.

Social activists and regime opponents continue to face trials in absentia. For example, on August 2, journalist Ales Kirkevich was sentenced in absentia to 7 years in prison for giving an interview to an independent media outlet that the authorities had declared an extremist formation.

Court hearings in politically motivated criminal cases continue to be unjustifiably held in closed session and in complete secrecy.

Violation of freedom of association

The mass forced liquidation of NGOs persists. The court is to consider the claims of the authorities to liquidate the International Public Association "Cultural Exchange," the Public Association "Sports Club BKHM," and the International Public Association "Alternative."

ProWomenBY, a non-profit organization, announced its closure due to pressure from authorities.

Anarchist Black Cross Belarus social media accounts have been declared extremist material.

The non-profit organization OEEC has been declared an extremist formation. The organization's employees may be held criminally liable.

The prosecution of pro-democratic political structures, public initiatives, and associations persists. On August 28, the trial of the individuals involved in the "Talent Pool for New Belarus" initiative commenced.

The persecution of neighborhood communities, which played a pivotal role in mobilizing for the 2020 protests, persists. We have been informed that another "neighborhood chat" administrator, Aliaksei Yaumenenkau, has been detained.

Individuals who provide financial support to public organizations and initiatives that are viewed as contrary to the interests of the government are still facing legal action for promoting extremist views.

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

It is of concern that criminal prosecutions for exercising the rights to freedom of peaceful assembly and freedom of expression continue unabated. There have been instances where individuals have been prosecuted en masse and have received severe penalties, including imprisonment.

On August 5, the Leninski District Court of Brest announced the sentences of eight participants in the August 10, 2020 protests. The individuals sentenced were Ivan Amreichyk, Vasil Niparko, Aliaksei Samoiluk, Anatol Zakurko, Ihar Sarokin, Siarhei Dzemidziuk, Mikita Yakhimovich, and Valiantsina Zhukouskaya. All individuals were charged under Part 1 of Article 342 of the Criminal Code, which pertains to "participation in group actions that grossly violate public order," and were subsequently sentenced to imprisonment.

The list of individuals subject to special proceedings is being expanded. The expression of opinion and participation in peaceful assemblies continue to be prosecuted and punished in absentia. In August, five such defendants were added to the list, bringing the total to 117.

On August 2, the Hrodna Kastryčnicki District Court found activist Katsiaryna Tumanava guilty under Part 1 of Articles 342 and 364 of the Criminal Code and sentenced her in absentia to two and a half years of imprisonment.

A previously amnestied political prisoner (Amnesty Act in Honor of the Day of National Unity No. 220-Z of December 7, 2022) was also prosecuted. Thus, on August 14, 2024, the Court of Baranavičy District and Baranavičy City passed a guilty verdict and sentenced Piotr Zinevich to two years and six months of imprisonment for committing a crime under Article 342 of the Criminal Code. He allegedly participated in a protest on the night of August 9-10, 2020. On January 11, 2023, Zinevich was freed from punishment for committing a crime under Article 188 of the Criminal Code (slander) with the cancellation of the criminal record.

As the Mahilioŭ Viasna chapter reported, the Hlusk District Court has sentenced a 15-year-old schoolgirl to two years in a special educational institution for allegedly "intentionally insulting a policeman by making a video clip of an offensive nature, which was posted on the Internet, i.e. a crime under Article 369 of the Criminal Code."

As previously noted by the Viasna human rights activists, special closed educational institutions are places of deprivation of liberty. However, the process of depriving individuals of their liberty in these facilities does not meet the standards of due process, including the right to legal representation for defendants. This case concerns the arbitrary and politically motivated persecution of a minor.

Administrative prosecution

In August, Viasna was informed of no fewer than 152 instances of politically motivated repression resulting from criminal and administrative prosecution. Of these cases, 81 administrative cases were considered by courts. In 90% of cases, Article 19.11 of the Administrative Violations Code was invoked for the distribution of information materials deemed extremist by the authorities. Additionally, several cases were adjudicated under Article 24.23 of the Administrative Violations Code for "unauthorized picketing" and Article 24.15 for the use of "foreign gratuitous aid," which refers to material support for victims of political repression.

Harassment of journalists and media workers

As of August 31, 35 journalists and media professionals have been incarcerated.

On August 19, the Hrodna Regional Court found journalist and human rights activist Uladzimir Khilmanovich guilty in absentia of "other assistance to extremist activities" (Part 1 of Article 361-4 of the Criminal Code), "repeated assistance to extremist activities", and "joining an extremist group with the intention of committing an extremist crime" (Part 3 of Article 361-1 of the Criminal Code).

For the totality of the crimes committed, the court has decided to cumulatively sentence Khilmanovich to five years of imprisonment and a fine of $12,250. The arbitrary prosecution was a direct result of Khilmanovich's human rights and journalistic activities.

On August 16, the decision was made to grant clemency to some political prisoners. On August 20, journalist Kseniya Lutskina, who had been sentenced to eight years in prison on arbitrary charges of conspiracy to seize power by unconstitutional means, was released by pardon.

The website of the regional independent media Orsha.eu has been recognized as an extremist formation. The founder of the outlet, human rights defender Ihar Kazmerchak, is under criminal investigation.

Violation of rights and freedoms under the pretext of combating extremism and terrorism

In August, seven new items were added to the list of extremist formations. In a decision by the KGB, the Association of Political Prisoners of Belarus has been designated as an extremist formation.

In a decision dated August 15, the Ministry of Internal Affairs added the Polish non-governmental foundation Wolność i Demokracja (Freedom and Democracy) to the list of entities subject to restrictions. The foundation advocates for human rights, civil liberties, and freedom of speech in Belarus and other post-Soviet countries. An important area of the Foundation's activities is supporting Polish organizations in the post-Soviet space, mainly in Belarus, Ukraine, and Lithuania, but also in other countries around the world. The persecution of a foreign organization represents yet another episode of the anti-Polish policy of the Aliaksandr Lukashenka regime. Before that, the authorities took action to suppress and eradicate Polish national minority organizations, incarcerating their leaders and demolishing the graves of Armia Krajowa soldiers.

In August, the Russian Orthodox Church – Tsarist Empire, a religious community of Russian origin, was designated as an extremist formation by the Ministry of Internal Affairs. The Ministry cited the group's "gross distortion" of Orthodox Church doctrines and practices, its opposition to other religious organizations and society at large, and its promotion of discord among Belarusian citizens. It is important to note that these allegations cannot, in and of themselves, serve as grounds for restricting freedom of conscience. The freedom to manifest religion or belief is subject only to such limitations as are prescribed by law and are necessary to protect public safety, order, health, and morals, as well as the fundamental rights and freedoms of others. It is not reasonable to prosecute individuals for engaging in religious activities. Such actions are an infringement on an individual's right to freedom of conscience.

In August, 92 individuals were added to the List of Citizens of the Republic of Belarus, Foreign Nationals, and Stateless Persons Engaged in Extremist Activities. The oldest individual on the list is over 75 years old, while the youngest were convicted of participating in street protests and subsequently included on the List as minors.

In accordance with 112 court decisions, the Republican List of Extremist Materials has been updated to include Telegram, YouTube and TikTok channels, social media pages, and other sources and media identified as extremist.

In particular, several books by historian and political prisoner Ihar Melnikau are declared extremist materials. Melnikau is charged with promoting extremist activity under Article 361-4 of the Criminal Code.

Those engaging in activities that have been arbitrarily labeled as extremist are subject to criminal prosecution and arbitrary imprisonment.

For example, a Belarusian woman was extorted for a huge ransom under threat of prosecution for making several donations to protest initiatives. Before the disbursement of the "compensation," which amounted to a significant multiple of the donations (up to several thousand euros), the woman was held in a detention center under conditions that were akin to torture.

On July 25, Brest Regional Court handed down a two-year prison sentence to 63-year-old table tennis coach Yury Lahadziuk, according to a report from the Viasna Brest chapter. He was found guilty under Part 1 of Article 361-4 of the Criminal Code for "promoting extremist activity". The gravamen remained unknown to human rights activists. The sentence was handed down by Judge Andrei Siz.

On August 19, the Hrodna Regional Court commenced proceedings in the criminal case against 68-year-old Brest resident Natallia Zhyhar. She is charged under Part 1 and Part 2 of Article 361-4 of the Criminal Code (promoting extremist activity). The case is being considered by Judge Valer Ramanouski.

The Brest chapter of Viasna reports that the case is connected to the support of individuals detained in remand centers on political grounds.

Iryna Pahadayeva and Natallia Malets were imprisoned under the same article in the last few months.

People's Embassy Releases Document Addressing Common Misconceptions in Belarusian Asylum Cases

Sep 01, 2024

The People's Embassy of Belarus in Sweden has released a new document designed to assist Belarusian asylum seekers and their legal representatives in challenging common claims made by the Swedish Migration Agency (Migrationsverket) that lead to asylum rejections.

This document meticulously analyzes the typical claims made in rejection decisions and offers well-supported counterarguments, drawing on reports from international organizations as well as the Migration Agency’s own documents. The goal is to provide a robust tool that helps strengthen asylum cases by addressing these points proactively.

The document currently covers four key claims frequently used by Migrationsverket:

Migration Agency Claim:

1. If an individual was able to legally leave Belarus, it suggests they are not at risk.

Counterargument: The document clarifies that the Belarusian regime often uses forced exile as a form of punishment. The ability to leave the country does not guarantee safety upon return, as many face severe risks if they go back.

2. "Limited dissemination" of critical posts on social media supposedly reduces the risk of persecution.

Counterargument: The document highlights the reality of digital totalitarianism in Belarus, where even minimal online dissent can attract severe reprisals, contrary to the belief that limited exposure lessens danger.

3. Individuals who were not prominent opposition figures are not at risk.

Counterargument: The document demonstrates that the Belarusian regime’s surveillance and repression extend far beyond prominent figures, targeting a wide range of perceived dissidents, including those with minimal public profiles.

4. Delayed asylum applications indicate a lack of urgency or need for protection.

Counterargument: This document is intended to be a "living" resource, continuously updated with new information and insights from human rights organizations and legal experts representing Belarusian asylum seekers.

We believe that this document can also be a valuable resource for the Swedish Migration Agency as it reviews Belarusian asylum cases. We would like to emphasize the urgent need to halt deportations of Belarusian nationals whose cases have been decided, while this review is ongoing. Allowing these deportations to proceed would be inconsistent and could expose individuals to significant danger.

The document is available here: [Link to Document]

Freedom for Nobel Peace Prize Laureate Ales Bialiatski!

Aug 31, 2024

In Belarus, Ales Bialiatski, the chairman of the human rights centre "Viasna" and winner of the Nobel Peace Prize 2022, has been sitting innocently in prison since 14 July 2021. Ales Bialiatski is one of more than 1,400 political prisoners in Belarus. They are all imprisoned solely for exercising their human rights to freedom of expression, assembly and association.

We call for the immediate and unconditional release of Ales Bialiatski and all other political prisoners by the Belarusian regime. We call on all authorities of the Republic of Belarus to immediately end the intimidation, persecution and imprisonment of peaceful demonstrators, opposition activists, human rights activists, students and media representatives.

The imprisonment of political prisoners and the persecution of political dissidents are serious violations of human rights, which Belarus, as a State Party to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, has undertaken to respect. We would like to remind the diplomatic representatives of the Republic of Belarus of their country's international obligations and call on the Belarusian authorities to grant the fundamental human rights to freedom of expression, assembly and association to all people in Belarus without restrictions.

Why is this important?

Ales Bialiatski was arrested on 14 July 2021 and is only one of many political prisoners in Belarus who are innocently in prison because they are committed to freedom, democracy and human rights. In 1996, Bialiatski founded the Belarusian human rights centre Viasna, which today can only operate from exile. In 2022, he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize together with the Russian NGO Memorial and the Ukrainian Center for Civil Liberties.

The Norwegian Nobel Committee's decision to award Ales Bialiatski the 2022 Nobel Peace Prize is an important sign of solidarity with all political prisoners in Belarus, whose fate we must not forget.

Since Belarus' presidential election in August 2020, which according to the OSCE was rigged, people have been arbitrarily detained and unlawfully sentenced every day in the EU's neighbouring country. In 2020 and 2021, more than 40,000 politically motivated arrests were counted and more than 1,800 cases of state torture were documented.

There are currently over 1,400 people in political detention, including 2022 Nobel Peace Prize laureate Ales Bialiatski. Violence, arbitrariness, torture and repression against citizens, human rights organisations and independent journalists are commonplace.

How will the signatures be handed over?
A handover to a Belarusian embassy is planned.

At the moment, more than 82 thousand people have signed the petition. Every signature, every voice is very important!

You can sign the petition via the link: [link to petition]

Slovenia to Issue Transit Documents for Belarusian Citizens Amid Lukashenka's Non-Recognition and Continued International Isolation

Aug 31, 2024

In a recent meeting, Pavel Latushka, deputy head of the Unified Transitional Cabinet, and Marko Stuchyn, the State Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Slovenia, discussed ongoing international efforts to isolate the regime of Alexander Lukashenka. Slovenia expressed its continued support for expanding sanctions against the Lukashenka regime, aligning them closely with measures against the Russian Federation due to its aggression against Ukraine.

During their talks, Latushka highlighted the importance of enhancing sanctions while avoiding measures that could adversely affect ordinary Belarusians. He pointed out that while increasing pressure is crucial, it is equally vital to ensure that the Belarusian public does not suffer from these international policies.

Slovenia has committed to providing expert legal consultations to the Unified Transitional Cabinet and the People’s Anti-Crisis Administration, specifically in matters related to holding Lukashenka accountable at the International Criminal Court and the International Court of Justice. Preliminary agreements were made to hold consultations in Ljubljana soon.

Due to the absence of a Slovenian diplomatic mission in Belarus, the issuance of visas for Belarusian citizens planning to travel to Slovenia was also discussed. Stuchyn promised to convey the request for visa facilitation to the consular department of Slovenia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, possibly involving a third EU member state in the process.

Furthermore, Stuchyn informed that Slovenia is prepared to issue transit documents for Belarusian citizens residing in Slovenia who are facing issues with their identification documents, including expired passports. The Belarusian People’s Embassy in Slovenia is actively involved in this matter, with precedents already set for such document issuance.

The meeting also touched upon issues related to opening bank accounts for Belarusian citizens in Slovenian commercial banks, aiming to ease financial transactions for those affected by the ongoing crisis.

This collaboration marks a significant step in supporting Belarusian citizens amid their country's political turmoil, ensuring they receive necessary legal and logistical support while abroad.

Source: The United Transitional Cabinet of Belarus

Franak Viacorka’s comment on asylum denials for Belarusians in Sweden

Aug 30, 2024

In recent days, after two Belarusian citizens were deported from Sweden, with one of them arrested right at the border, there have been significant discussions about the asylum situation for Belarusians in Sweden. Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya’s Chief Advisor, Franak Viacorka, shares what Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya’s Office has done in response to the situation.

📎 Consultations are ongoing with the Swedish Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Migration, the Lithuanian Embassy in Sweden, the Lithuanian government, and human rights defenders. Thanks to Dmitri Vasserman and the People’s Embassy in Sweden, we have managed to raise the issue to a high level.

📎 In recent months, the cooperation between the Office with the Swedish side has led to a reassessment of the situation in the country. Belarus is no longer considered a safe country for return. It is now crucial that the Migration Agency acts according to the new guidelines, as it makes decisions independently of the government. The Ministry of Migration has committed to facilitating and cooperating on this matter.

📎 The Office has proposed a moratorium on the deportation of our citizens to Belarus. The Migration Agency has pledged to review recent decisions on Belarusians within months, and we are negotiating to suspend deportations until the reviews are completed.

📎 Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya’ Office is now developing guidelines and advice for Belarusians to help prevent similar situations.

Ursula von der Leyen: “European Commission has communicated its position on Andrei Hniot’s case to Serbian leadership and outlined our expectations”

Aug 29, 2024

The President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, sent a letter to Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, confirming that she is well aware of the case involving Belarusian movie director, activist, and journalist Andrei Hniot.

“The European Commission is in direct contact with the Serbian side. More specifically, the EU Delegation in Belgrade attended the court hearing and immediately contacted the authorities after the decision of the Higher Court. We have communicated our position on Mr. Hniot’s case to the country’s leadership and outlined our expectations. Andrei Hniot’s case must be handled in accordance with international human rights laws and EU standards”, noted Ursula von der Leyen.

The European Commission President also emphasized that EU countries have repeatedly conveyed the following to the Serbian authorities:

🔴 The arrest warrant for Mr. Hniot is politically motivated;

🔴 If extradited to Belarus, he would face persecution.

Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya’s Office works daily at the political level on the extradition issues faced by Belarusians in more than 15 countries. Regarding Andrei Hniet’s case, the Office is in constant communication with Belarusian and international human rights defenders, the foreign ministries of several European countries, representatives of EU bodies, the US, the UN, and Serbia. The Office also maintains regular contact with Andrei himself. Thanks to this cooperation between democratic forces and the international community, Interpol canceled its red notice for Andrei Hniot in July.

"No one will know that you are sitting there beaten." Former political prisoner on the harsh conditions in the Vitsba penal colony

Aug 29, 2024

Mikalai (the name was changed for security reasons) spent almost two years in prison. In June, the man was released from Viciebsk colony № 3 on the expiration of his sentence. To avoid being put behind bars again, the former political prisoner was forced to leave Belarus. Mikalai told Viasna how prisoners are deprived of the right to medical care and forced to do hard labor, about denunciations of the Belarusian language, beatings of prisoners, as well as severe restrictions on political activity.

"The sentence has not yet come into effect and they have already taken me to the penal colony"

The man was accused of participating in the post-election protests in Minsk and sentenced to imprisonment. Immediately after the trial and even before the appeal was considered, he was transferred to Viciebsk penal colony № 3. At that time his sentence had not yet become final.

"When someone is going to be transferred, they give you time to pack. But they just grabbed me in a few minutes and told me to pack my things quickly. And they took me to the penal colony. I was only in quarantine for an hour, I didn't even know where I was. I did not understand what was going on and I thought it was illegal. The sentence has not yet come into effect and they have already taken me to the penal colony.

And they did not understand what to do with me there because I had not yet been sentenced. So they put me in solitary confinement. The hardest thing when you sit like that is not knowing how long you have to sit and where you are. I ended up in solitary confinement for two months."

"Immediately they do everything to break a person"

After the appeal was heard, Mikalai was transferred to quarantine.

"You go to quarantine and immediately they do everything to break a person. Penal colony No. 3 is a "red" colony. Not "black," where thieves rule, but red. There are also many policemen there. Everyone is under the administration's leadership."

According to Mikalai, prisoners who come to the colony are forced to sign papers stating that the person agrees to do whatever the administration says.

"I don't understand why they don't shoot you"

"There is no medical care in the colony. There's analgin if it's a critical situation.

And all the things that people say about their teeth are true. They don't want to provide dental care. If you get sick in the penal colony, there's nothing you can do, and no one will help you."

In addition, the former political prisoner said that there are two men in Viciebsk colony who were sentenced for making political statements, who have serious mental illnesses and therefore require special examination.

"A psychologist works in the colony. One day, the command went to the industrial zone and asked the psychologist why ordinary prisoners could be removed from the "suicidal" profile, but not political prisoners. And he said: "I don't understand why they don't shoot you."

"Three people seem to have died in just one day"

On May 7, 2023, Mikalai Klimovich, a 61-year-old political prisoner, blogger and social activist from Pinsk, died in Viciebsk Colony № 3. The man had a group II disability due to a disease of the heart system, suffered a stroke and complicated heart surgery. Nevertheless, the Pinsk court sentenced him to imprisonment. Mikalai spent a little more than two months in prison.

Mikalai was also in that colony. Viasna asked him if he knew about the death of a political prisoner.

"I heard about Klimovich's death. I suppose he did not survive the transfer. After all, there is a special attitude to political prisoners there. If a booth is for four people, and they push 20 people in there, it really is true. So if a person has a weak heart, he might not be able to stand it. And then the quarantine is very stressful. I think three people died there in one day."

"Many people are beaten in the colony"

Viasna often records facts about the use of physical violence against political prisoners. Most often, beatings and torture are used during arrest, but some continue to be abused in detention centers. Mikalai says that this also happens in the Viciebsk colony.

"Many people are beaten in the colony, not only political prisoners. If the staff doesn't like something, or if you give the wrong answer, they can certainly beat you. For example, those who are in the SHIZO. What difference does it make if even a lawyer is not allowed to visit them? So no one will know that you are sitting there beaten."

"We raise our hands and they count how many extremists and terrorists there are"

There is a special attitude to political prisoners in the colony, even sports were not allowed.

Once Mikalai refused to perform at a concert in a club in the colony, for which he was deprived of a Skype call. Political prisoners in general could not call their relatives for months, while every week is allowed.

"In addition, we raise our hands and they count how many extremists and terrorists there are. Murderers and drug addicts walk around with white tags, but we walk around with yellow tags. For every 40 people, there were 10 of us in the front - extremists.

People are in prison for nothing. You write "cockroach" and you get eight years. And there are murderers who get seven years for killing a man. I feel sorry for these people. Everyone is there: writers, poets, artists, IT specialists, former employees. There is someone interesting to talk to. Dzmitry Yurtayeu was imprisoned with us, and his books were in the library.

It is said that there are no friends in prison. That's not true. We were all friends."

"Are you crazy to speak Belarusian here?"

The administration does not approve of the Belarusian language in the colony. According to Mikalai, one of the employees tore up pictures and texts written in Belarusian.

"He said to me: "Are you crazy to speak Belarusian here?" There are people in the colony who make reports, so-called snitches, they tell the administration what these extremists are doing. And they can come and go through your bag looking for violations. And even with the first offense, they can send you to SHIZO (a punishment cell). And if there are three serious violations, they can add two more years to your sentence (under Article 411 of the Criminal Code).

And this is not just because you speak Belarusian there. It's just a tense situation there because of the terrible conditions and the fact that there's little space and it's the same thing every day."

"It's so cold that you can die"

Mikalai says the conditions in the prisoners' cell-type facility (PKT) are terrible.

"No sunlight enters the cell. In winter it is very cold because the window is open. It is so cold that you can die.

There are no mattresses in the SHIZO cells. Some sleep on an iron bed, others sleep on a wooden board.

They used to take me down these corridors to beat me up. All in all, there are single cells, and there are cells for four and six people."

"You just get poisoned by the USSR and that war"

"In the colonies there is very hard work that political prisoners are forced to do. Political prisoners do only hard work, they are not given light work. For example, we carry logs, boards. Some of them dismantle metal, and it gets so bad that their skin peels off. We also made some boxes, but we don't know what they are for. We made some uniforms for the Russian army. But I don't know exactly where they went.

There's also this cultural and correctional work all the time. They do propaganda there. All the time "war", "Soviet times", posters with "sickle and hammer" everywhere. You just get poisoned by the USSR and that war".

Political prisoners are forced to work even when they are ill. Mikalai remembers one time when he had a fever and was not allowed to see a doctor and was forced to go to work.

What saved in detention

"The administration, with its conditions, can make a tougher regime. It's hard. You wake up every day at six o'clock and the same thing starts. The only thing that saves you is books and trying to do sports. But it is important to eat well, and they make a salad out of the packages - they cut everything up and mix it. And when the package comes, it's a very hard day, because you have to lay everything out and sign it. And at that moment there can be some important things in the prison that you can't miss. And without packages, you can't survive on this food."

“Our country’s entire history is about fighting for freedom”

Aug 25, 2024

Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya’s address on Belarus’ Independence Day:

“Dear Belarusians!

Belarus became an independent state on this day 33 years ago. What many generations of Belarusians had dreamed of finally became a reality. Our country returned to the map of Europe. We regained our state, our coat of arms, and our flag, and later adopted our own Constitution.

In Belarus’ history, the events of March 25, 1918, when the Belarusian Democratic Republic (BNR) proclaimed its independence, July 27, 1990, when the Declaration of State Sovereignty was adopted, and August 25, 1991, when the Declaration gained the status of constitutional law, all stand as milestones in Belarusians’ struggle for the right to have our own state.

Some people say that independence ‘fell out of a clear blue sky’. This is not true. Belarus’ independence became possible thanks to the struggle and work of generations of Belarusian patriots: the founding fathers of the BNR and the participants of the Slutsk Uprising; the Belarusian underground resistance; youth associations and the intelligentsia; the diaspora, which defended the interests of Belarusians across the world during the years of Soviet occupation; tens of thousands of Belarusians who, despite fear and propaganda, took to the central squares in Minsk and other cities and towns; and, of course, the brave opposition members of the Supreme Soviet who enshrined Belarus’ independence in foundational laws.

Our country’s entire history is actually about fighting for freedom. We rose every time they tried to enslave us. We waged partisan battles every time the army lacked soldiers. We transitioned to quiet protests and did not let the freedom-loving Belarusian heart stop beating every time it seemed all was lost.

Belarusians possess qualities that have always helped us endure dark times, like patience and diligence, tolerance and peace-loving nature, a sense of justice, and a love for our land. And I believe these qualities and our solidarity will allow us to reclaim our home, free people from prisons, and defend the independence of our country like they did before. As 2020 showed, we Belarusians know how to make ourselves known and surprise the world.

Let us all continue the fight. Do not let dictators make you lose faith or doubt the chosen path. Spread information among your neighbors, friends, and family. Speak Belarusian. Show solidarity. Help those in need, especially our political prisoners, the repressed, and volunteer fighters. Let these be small steps that you take daily. “Through storms and obstacles, we march towards our goal. And we will reach it, as long as it is still there”, said Ales Bialiatski, our wise and unbreakable Nobel laureate.

And I would like to address those who work within the system, in the state apparatus and the army. I know there are many decent people among you. Regardless of your views, positions, and duties, remember. Independence is the highest value and the greatest achievement of our people. Do not allow the regime to destroy what we achieved on August 25, 1991, sell our country to Russia, and drag our nation into war. You must serve the Belarusian people, not a criminal dictator who is willing to sacrifice the country’s independence to maintain his power.

In conclusion, I want to once again congratulate all Belarusians on August 25 – the Day of Restoration of Independence. But I am confident there will be another date – the day when the Belarusian people finally cast off the burden of dictatorship for good and, as Yakub Kolas wrote, emerge ‘into the open space, onto the broad expanse’ to rebuild our country for ourselves and future generations.

Long Live Belarus!”

Anatoli Liabedzka on 2025 campaign in Belarus: “Both candidates and outcome are predetermined”

Aug 22, 2024

Advisor to Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya on Constitutional Reform, Anatoli Liabedzka, explained in an interview with Navy Chas why the regime is rushing to conduct the “special operation” called a “presidential election”. He also spoke on how the democratic forces view this “campaign”.

📌 “The authorities tend to hold major events like elections in winter when people are more tied to their homes and workplaces. It’s easier to control them then”.

📌 “Whether it’s February 23 or April 1 – it doesn’t matter. What matters is that both the candidates and the outcome are predetermined”.

📌 “There are three groups of people. The first refuses to participate in the campaign because of election fraud. The second supports active actions. The third group includes people who might want to abstain but are dependent on the government through work or dormitories. All these people support free elections because they took to the streets in 2020. This is why we should prioritize fair elections. We need to work with both our supporters and those who are unsure”.

📌 “Politicians representing different groups need to agree not to engage in confrontation. If we waste time criticizing each other’s positions, we’ll lose the chance to engage with the broader society, including those who are hesitant. We won’t be able to explain that free and fair elections are not just about the right to vote but also about the economy, welfare, and salaries…”

📌 “There will be a battle inside the country. Lukashenka will try hard to create the impression that what happened in 2020 was something debatable but five years have passed, the page is turned, and people have supposedly come to their senses and, like sheep with their heads down, have returned to the shepherd”.

📌 “We need to find a compromise to offer something to Belarusians within Belarus. It must first and foremost be safe for people, and we must prioritize struggling for a free election rather than convincing each other of who’s right or wrong”.

We have no moral right to say: ‘Sorry, it didn’t work out’ – we must continue to fight

Aug 16, 2024

Why sanctions against the regime require a new approach, why it’s important to support Belarusians, why Belsat TV must be preserved, and what consequences the West might face if it excludes Belarus from the agenda – Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya discussed all this in an interview with the Polish newspaper Rzeczpospolita.

📌 “Democratic countries must remember that aid for Belarus is not some kind of charity. It’s an investment in European security because Belarus has strategic importance. Let’s hope they haven’t missed the timing for this investment”.

📌 “People inside Belarus are not giving up. All the information about how the regime circumvents sanctions, its financial schemes, and details about nuclear weapons – we receive this from the regime insiders. They are our supporters”.

📌 “Sanctions must affect the regime’s trade, not ordinary people. The dictator doesn’t deserve such gifts. Discrimination against Belarusians only fuels Lukashenka’s propaganda. He will claim that the West doesn’t want our people and they are not welcome there”.

📌 “We must continue to fight. We have no moral right to say, ‘Sorry, it didn’t work out’. Neither do our partners. How will Western politicians look each other in the eye after abandoning the fight against Lukashenka?”

📌 “We’re not only focusing on building institutions in exile. We had to make sure that Belarusians both in exile and in the country receive appropriate support. Now there are many initiatives, each one focusing on specific problems”.

📌 “Belsat is a unique project. It’s the only Belarusian-language channel, an outstanding project launched by Poland. We are fighting against the massive propaganda machines of Lukashenka and Putin. We need to strengthen this fight, not weaken it. I am trying to explain this to our partners”.

The pressure continues: what happened to political prisoners between July 16 and August 12

Aug 14, 2024

For more than four years law enforcement agencies in Belarus have been carrying out mass repressions. Almost every week the number of political prisoners in the country increases, and every day human rights activists receive information about detainees' terrible conditions, pressure from the prison administration, and the worsening health of political prisoners in custody. Viasna reports the latest news about political prisoners.

48 people were recognized as political prisoners over the past week. At the moment there are 1,385 people on the list of political prisoners. In addition, human rights activists learned that 42 political prisoners had served their sentences and were released, including Vadzim Yermashuk, Dzianis Pishchala, Ruslan Akostka, Mikalai Kazlou and Bahdan Karavets.

Human rights activists also learned about the sentences of eight political prisoners in politically motivated cases:

Siarhei Dziatsuk - another year in penal colony;
Siarhei Yafimau - another year in penal colony;
Andrei Kudzik - four years in prison;
Natallia Levaya - six years in penal colony;
Pavel Belaholau was sentenced to three years and four months in penal colony;
Ales Sabaleuski - four years in penal colony;
Yauhen Hlushkou - three years in penal colony;
Natallia Malets - three and a half years in penal colony.

Military analyst Yahor Lebiadok was placed in SHIZO for 10 days

Judge Alena Misnik sentenced the political prisoner to five years’ imprisonment in a medium-security penal colony under Part 1 and Part 2 of Article 361-4 of the Criminal Code (promotion of extremist activity).

According to the case materials, Lebiadok "in order to support the activities of a public destructive channel, the information products of which were recognized by the court as extremist materials, gave an interview to a representative of the channel on the topic of the special military operation of the Russian armed forces in Ukraine and the role of Belarus in it".

Yahor is serving his sentence in Ivacevičy penal colony. According to MAYDAY TEAM, the political prisoner recently served at least 10 days in a punishment cell (SHIZO).

Political prisoner Viachaslau Maleichuk is tried for the third time for "malicious disobedience to the colony administration"

On February 10, 2023, Viachaslau, who was earlier sentenced to 23 years in prison, was also found guilty under Article 411 of the Criminal Code. Judge Mikalai Siarheika added him a year in penal colony. After the verdict Maleichuk was sent to penal colony No. 9 in Horki. A few months later he was prosecuted for the second consecutive criminal case under Part 2 of Article 411 of the Criminal Code.

His next trial took place on August 23 last year. Viachaslau did not admit his guilt. Judge Alena Verabyova added two more years of imprisonment to 23 years of colony.

On August 7, the third trial over the political prisoner for "disobedience to the administration" started in Mozyr District Court. Judge Anatol Strelchanka is considering the case. He can add two more years of imprisonment.

Political prisoner Andrzej Poczobut is still in a punishment cell (PKT)

The Hrodna journalist has been behind bars for 40 months. On February 8, 2023, he was sentenced to eight years' imprisonment. Now he is serving his sentence in Navapolack colony No. 1, where he is constantly put under pressure.

During the action of solidarity with political prisoners in Bialystok, Marek Zaniewski, vice-chairman of the Union of Poles in Belarus, said that Poczobut was still kept in PKT:

"Unfortunately, there is no information about Andrzej. He continues to be in Navapolack, sitting in isolation and nothing is happening. All this information that has been playing for the last months, some people said that he was released, some people said that he was taken to the border.

Of course, none of this is true, it's all fake. We are very disappointed that such situations are happening. The situation with Andrzej remains very difficult and today we do not see it improving".

Political prisoner Viachaslau Sheliamet will be transferred to a prison security level

Viachaslau, 23, has been in custody for almost four years. He was arrested on August 20, 2020 for participating in a protest in Pinsk on the night of August 9-10.

On April 30, 2021, in a criminal case under Part 2 of Article 293 of the Criminal Code, the Maskouski District Court of Brest rendered a verdict against 14 Pinsk political prisoners accused of "participation in mass riots". Viachaslau was sentenced to five and a half years in a medium-security penal colony.

He was sent to Viciebsk penal colony No. 3 to serve his sentence. According to "Brestskaya Viasna", on July 31 in Viciebsk there was a trial on Viachaslau's transfer to a prison security level. The decision was made by Judge Mikhail Zubenia.

Political prisoner Yury Ziankovich is being tried in a new criminal case

Yury is a lawyer who was convicted in the "conspirators' case". He was charged under a number of criminal articles and sentenced to 11 years in a medium-security penal colony.

On December 27, 2022, the court considered a new case against Yury on "insulting a government official" (Article 369 of the Criminal Code). According to preliminary information, Ziankovich was given additional six months.

At first, Yury served his sentence in Babruisk colony No. 2, where he was put under pressure. The political prisoner spent eight days in the punishment cell and went on hunger strike. Later, his punishment was increased and he was transferred to Mahilioŭ prison.

On August 7, the political prisoner was tried in Leninski District Court of Mahilioŭ for "malicious disobedience to the prison administration" under Part 2 of Article 411 of the Criminal Code. The case is being considered by Judge Viktoryia Paliakova.

Anarchist political prisoner Mikalai Dziadok has been held in a punishment cell for almost two months

In June Mikalai and many other political prisoners of Hrodna Prison No. 1 were sent to a punishment cell (SHIZO). Mikalai is still there. Besides, the political prisoner has been kept in solitary confinement for more than a year.

Mikalai was detained on November 11, 2020, and he was severely beaten and tortured. He was sentenced to five years in prison. All the time in detention he is under pressure.

Ihar Alinevich was transferred from the hospital in Kaliadzičy back to Žodzina prison

This is reported by the Telegram channel "Right to Revolt". At the end of June, Ihar was placed in the hospital in Kaliadzičy. The reason was unknown.

Ihar is an activist of the anarchist movement who was detained while crossing the border of Belarus on the night of October 28-29, 2020. He was charged under a number of criminal articles. As a result, Ihar was sentenced to 20 years in a high security prison.

Later he was transferred to Žodzina prison.

Activist Yauhen Afnahel was transferred to Mahilioŭ prison

The activist of "European Belarus", who was sentenced to seven years in prison, has been kept behind bars for three years and 10 months. In May, after two years in prison, the political prisoner was again transferred to Navapolack penal colony, where he had previously served his sentence.

Immediately upon his arrival at the institution the administration placed him in the SHIZO for 45 days, and then transferred him to a punishment cell (PKT). On July 29 , another trial was held in Navapolack to change Yauhen's prison security level. Judge Vital Lapko decided to transfer the political prisoner to prison until the end of his term. Yauhen was already transferred to Mahilioŭ.

Political prisoner Yauhen Kladou was not released after serving his first term and he will be tried again

The Baranavičy resident was arrested for 13 days in August 2023 and his phone was seized. But after that Yauhen was not released - in November 2023, a criminal trial was held. He was sentenced a year in jail for liking caricatures of Lukashenka on the internet.

Now it became known that a criminal case was opened against Kladou under new articles: "mass riots" (Article 293 of the Criminal Code), "incitement to hatred" (Article 130 of the Criminal Code) and "calls for actions aimed at harming the national security of the Republic of Belarus" (Article 361 of the Criminal Code). The resident of Baranavičy could face up to 12 years in penal colony, Yauhen was recently added to the list of "terrorists".

Political prisoner Palina Sharenda-Panasiuk was diagnosed with chronic pancreatitis

The political prisoner was supposed to be released on May 21 this year. But two days before her release she was transferred to Homieĺ Pre-trial detention center No. 3 as part of another criminal case under Article 411 of the Criminal Code (malicious disobedience to the demands of the administration of the penitentiary). Recently, Palina's relatives received an official response from the administration of the women's colony No. 24, stating that the woman was diagnosed with "chronic pancreatitis of medium severity". The husband of the political prisoner Andrei Sharenda told "Radio Svaboda" about it.

"We didn't know that she had pancreatitis, but there were reports that Palina had stomach aches and sudden weight loss. Once she lost so much weight that she weighed only 50 kilograms. However, all requests to the penal colony were officially answered that Palina was healthy and was allegedly receiving the necessary assistance.

Political prisoner Uladzimir Hundar was deprived of another short-term visit

Radio Racyja reported about it:

"He's already had some kind of offense that got him deprived of a short-term visit, which isn't due until September, but he's already been deprived. He himself doesn't know what for. They didn't even explain anything, they just said that he was deprived and that's all. And he doesn't even know for how long.

The defendant in the "Autukhovich case" was sentenced to a total of 20 years in prison for several criminal cases. Upon arrival at the colony, he was placed in a punitive isolation cell several times. In early October 2023, it became known that Hundar's punishment was increased and he was transferred to a prison security level.

In Baranavičy, a former political prisoner, who had been released under amnesty, is on trial for "participation in protests"

On August 12, the trial of three local residents under Part 1 of Article 342 of the Criminal Code started in Baranavičy District Court. Aliaksandr Tarasovich, Dzmitry Blashenitsa and Piotr Zinevich are accused of participation in the protests that took place four years ago. Their case is being considered by Aksana Litvinchyk.

Piotr Zinevich is a former political prisoner who was sentenced to two years of "khimiya" in 2021 for publishing a photo of a police officer with the inscription, which was considered as "slander".

On January 11, 2023, Piotr was released under the Amnesty Law. At the end of April 2024 Piotr was detained again together with several residents of Baranavičy. Now the man is kept in the pre-trial detention center.

Another former political prisoner from Baranavičy will be tried again

Vital Korshun is 37 years old. He was born in Baranavičy. He was tried for the first time in September 2021. A year before that, he left a comment about looking for the address of a riot police officer. According to the version of the riot policeman himself, Siarhei Balabanovich, after this post he was very scared, although Korshun quickly deleted it. As a result, the entrepreneur was sentenced to two months' imprisonment.

The next time Vital was detained in January 2024.

Korshun's trial will start on August 13 in Brest Regional Court. He is accused under five political articles: "slander against Lukashenka" (Part 2 of Article 367 of the Criminal Code), "participation in actions that grossly violate public order" (Part 1 of Article 342 of the Criminal Code), "organization of mass riots" (Part 1 of Article 293 of the Criminal Code), "calls for sanctions" (Part 3 of Article 361) and "incitement to hatred" (Part 1 of Article 130 of the Criminal Code). The political prisoner faces up to 12 years in penal colony. He will be tried by Sviatlana Kremenieuskaya.

Political prisoners are massively forced to write petitions for pardon

According to Viasna human rights activists, representatives of the Minsk Prosecutor's Office come to Navapolack penal colony No. 1 every day, forcing political prisoners to write petitions for pardon. But this applies only to those sentenced to short terms.

It is also known that in some penal colonies political prisoners are placed in punishment cells for refusing to write a petition, and some are threatened with a new criminal case under Article 411 of the Criminal Code (malicious disobedience to the requirements of the administration of the penitentiary institution).

In addition, human rights activists receive evidence that Yury Vaskrasenski has become active in recent weeks - he calls relatives of political prisoners and tells them about the conditions and circumstances of pardon, agitating for their relatives behind bars to write a petition to Lukashenka.

According to Viasna, on July 3, 18 political prisoners were released on amnesty or pardon. Among them there were four women and 14 men, including Ryhor Kastusiou, a cancer patient.

President of Lithuania, Gitanas Nausėda:

Solidarity Relay: Unite to support Belarus

Aug 11, 2024

“Voice Across Borders: Belarus Global Awareness” is an ambitious initiative designed to confront and illuminate the severe political and human rights crisis engulfing Belarus.

Following the 2020 election, Belarus has found itself at a critical crossroads, with increasing political oppression, threats to its cultural identity, and erosion of sovereignty due to external pressures. This project aims to counter these challenges by elevating global awareness and fostering a unified international response.

What are we doing?

We are launching a solidarity relay that will involve different countries and diasporas and will end in December 2024. The relay will include exhibitions, concerts, discussions and webinars, talking about Belarus, our culture and the challenges we face. We are also raising funds to help Belarusians affected by the regime, including vulnerable groups like the elderly, disabled, and children of political prisoners.

Why is this important?

On average, relatives spend €2000 per year per political prisoner. Rehabilitation of a released person could cost anything from €6000 in Europe and from €2000 in Belarus. Today there are about 1500 recognised political prisoners in Belarusian prisons, and the same number of people have recently been released. And there are also thousands of people who have suffered for their position and need help.

Our goal is to raise €500,000 which would go to help those who found themselves in need due to a barbaric treatment of the dictatorship regime.

How can you help?

Your donation can change someone's life.

For example:
€10 can purchase essential medications for one person of a political prisoner with nece
€15 can provide a child of a political prisoner with necessary stationery
€20 can provide a family of a political prisoner with grocery supplies for a few days.
€50 can provide warm clothes for a political refugee in need

This is an ambitious project and we hope to make it a success to establish it as a regular annual initiative in solidarity with Belarus

Our project is led by a dedicated team of representatives of Belarusian initiatives and solidarity funds, including the People's Embassies of Belarus and the following foundations - the Country to Live in, BYSOL, ByHelp and Dissidentby. Our experience and commitment ensures that every donation is used effectively to support our mission.

Please join us on our journey, learn more about project’s events, and rejoice in our successes:

Facebook: Voices Across Borders
Instagram: voices_acrossborders

Thank you for your support and solidarity!

Sincerely,
The “Voices Across Borders” Team.

Source: BYSOL

More than 20 countries supported Belarusian people on 4th anniversary of 2020 election

Aug 10, 2024

Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya had declared August 9, 2024, as the Day of Solidarity with Belarus, marking the fourth anniversary of the presidential election rigged by the dictator and the beginning of the Belarusian people’s struggle for a free country.

Yesterday, representatives from Lithuania, Sweden, Finland, Norway, Latvia, Poland, Estonia, the USA, the UK, Ukraine, Germany, Canada, Ireland, the Czech Republic, the Netherlands, Slovenia, Austria, Iceland, Italy, France, Georgia, Australia, as well as the President of the European Parliament and MPs from various countries, and officials of the European Commission made statements in support of democratic Belarus.

Here are some of the statements by international leaders, politicians, and diplomats released on the Day of Solidarity with Belarus:

“Four years since the start of Lukashenka’s repression campaign against Belarusian people who stood up for freedom and democracy. Lithuania is home to Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya and many Belarusians who fled the persecution. We believe in the democratic future of Belarus. Freedom spirit always prevails!”

Joint statement from the US, Canada, the UK, and the EU:
“Four years on from the fraudulent 2020 presidential election and the appalling human rights crackdown in Belarus, the United States of America, Canada, the United Kingdom and the European Union stand in solidarity with the people of Belarus who, in spite of continued repression by the Lukashenko regime, have peacefully and courageously pressed for democratic change, respect for human rights, and the release of all political prisoners. We affirm that the sanctions we have recently announced represent a coordinated, multilateral effort to advance accountability for the Lukashenka regime”.

Minister of Foreign Affairs of Sweden, Tobias Billström:
“It’s been four years since the Lukashenka regime illegally and brutally stole the election in Belarus. But Sweden will stand behind the Belarusian people and its indisputable right to once again have democracy and freedom. Sviatlana Tsihanouskaya is the leader of the Belarusian democratic opposition and we support her”.

Foreign Office of Germany:

“Today marks the fourth anniversary of the fraudulent presidential election in Belarus when hundreds of thousands of brave people took to the streets in support of democracy. We have not forgotten them, just as we have not forgotten Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, whose tireless work continues to give many people in Belarus courage and hope, despite the massive repression. This deeply impresses us”, said [Minister] Baerbock. “We remember all those unlawfully imprisoned, often without the ability to contact their loved ones. The idea of freedom and democracy cannot be imprisoned. We will continue to strive for their release. #StandWithBelarus”.

Minister of Foreign Affairs of Iceland, Þórdís Kolbrún Reykfjörð Gylfadóttir:

“The regime in Belarus staged a fake election 4 years ago. Lukashenka has no legitimacy. Cheaters don’t get to call themselves winners. Every day brave people like my friend Sviatlana Tsihanouskaya show that there is hope for the people of Belarus”.

White House National Security Communications Advisor, John Kirby:
“Since taking office, President Biden has made it clear: The United States firmly supports the people of Belarus in their pursuit of a democratic future. The US will continue to defend human rights and freedom of expression in Belarus, as well as hold the Lukashenka regime accountable for its actions. […] As the President told the leader of the Belarusian opposition: We will continue to support the people of Belarus in their courageous quest for democracy”.

US Senator, Jeanne Shaheen:

“Today marks four years since fraudulent elections in Belarus kept Putin’s puppet, Lukashenka, in power. The US continues to recognize Sviatlana Tsihanouskaya as the democratically elected leader of Belarus and will remain stalwart in our support for those fighting for freedom in Belarus”.

Caucus “For Democratic Belarus!” in the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine:

“The Verkhovna Rada’s caucus “For Democratic Belarus!” consistently advocates for condemning the de-facto occupation of Belarus by Russia and calls on the President of Ukraine, the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine, and the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine to recognize this at the state level. We also appeal to partner countries to support Belarusians who continue to fight against the regime both within Belarus and beyond its borders. Long Live Belarus! Glory to Ukraine!”

New Belarus Conference

Aug 09, 2024

The New Belarus Conference 2024, organized by Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya’s Office, took place in Vilnius on August 3-4, gathering over 300 representatives of Belarusian civil society organizations and political bodies, politicians, diplomats, experts, activists, and journalists. More than 100 organizations and initiatives were represented. The conference was watched online by over 70,000 users on various platforms.

During the conference, Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya and representatives of the United Transitional Cabinet and the Coordination Council addressed numerous issues relevant to Belarusians, including the New Belarus Passport, political prisoner exchange, the strategy for the 2025 election in Belarus, and more.

Key events of the conference included the signing of the Protocol for Cooperation formalizing relations between different bodies of Belarus’ democratic forces and the presentation of Platform 2025 shaping the framework of activities for 2025.

The following declarations were released following the conference: “Unconstitutional Seizure of Power: Why A. Lukashenka Must Be Barred from the 2025 Election”, Declaration on Accountability and Restoring Justice, Declaration on the Foreign Policy Priorities of Democratic Belarus, Draft Declaration on Support for Independent Media, Draft Declaration on the Need for the Release and Support for Political Prisoners, and Draft Declaration on the Youth Policy of the Democratic Forces of Belarus. These documents reflect the key goals and objectives of the democratic forces of Belarus for the near future.

Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya awarded the Unbowed Medal (Larysa Henijush Medal) to 13 former political prisoners for significant contributions to the Belarusian people’s struggle for human rights and democratic freedoms.

The conference also featured side events that took place on August 2 and 5.

During the New Belarus Conference, Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya announced new appointments to the United Transitional Cabinet. She nominated Vadzim Kabanchuk for the Representative for Defense and National Security, Marharyta Vorykhava for the Representative for Youth and Student Affairs, and Ambassador Vladzimir Astapenka for the Representative for International and European Cooperation. The new representatives are to be approved by the Coordination Council.

Statement by Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya’s Office regarding prisoner exchange between Russia, the USA and Germany

Aug 01, 2024

“We did not participate in these negotiations and have limited information. Unfortunately, we have no evidence that this exchange could lead to the release of political prisoners in Belarus. Evidently, these were negotiations with Moscow, and Belarus was not involved.

We welcome the release of political prisoners from Russian prisons. Such a prisoner exchange is itself an important precedent that could also help achieve the release of Belarusians. It is clear that an exchange for release assumes that there is someone or something to exchange for. This distinguishes the Belarusian situation from the Russian one.

We utilize every opportunity and tool to get our people out of prisons. We regularly raise this issue with Western partners. Consultations take place in various formats, though, of course, privately. We know that diverse efforts are being made to free Belarusians. Unfortunately, the problem lies not with Western partners but with the regime, which is not interested in releasing people and openly demonstrates this”.

Returning to Belarus

Jul 31, 2024

How the Desire to Return Home Turns into a Prison Sentence

For the past three years, there have been reports of Belarusians who left the regime and then returned home, only to face repression. Many, while abroad, might have thought that this could never happen to them, that the authorities had forgotten, or that too much time had passed. But that is far from the truth.

On July 23, Nasha Niva published an article about Natalia Levaya, who returned to Belarus after a long time. According to the article, on July 17, she was sentenced to 6 years in a penal colony and fined 40,000 rubles.

Natalia, 38 years old, is a professional 2D artist who lived in Poland and was very eager to return to Belarus. Despite her colleagues advising her against returning, her desire to go back to her homeland was stronger. She even paid donations for 2020 in excess, for which she received a certificate from the KGB. With this certificate, she headed back to Belarus.

However, the Homeland Did Not Greet Her with Open Arms

Natalia was detained at the border. On July 17, the Brest City Court charged her with three offenses: "Funding of War," "Funding of Extremist Organizations," and "Funding of Extremist Activities." Six years in a penal colony is the price she paid for her desire to return to her homeland, believing that the KGB would not bother her due to the so-called compensation.

Why do we highlight this story? It is a clear example of the regime's lies, its repressive policies, and its hatred towards its own citizens.

Earlier this year, human rights activists reported over 200 Belarusians who were detained upon returning to their homeland. Many of them appealed to the "return commission," but this did not save them. Among them was Tatyana Kurilina, who was accused of administering protest chats and sentenced to four and a half years in a penal colony. Brest resident Igor Nemirovich also appealed to the commission and returned to Belarus, receiving a one-year prison sentence. There are hundreds of such examples.

Do Not Trust the Safety of Returning Home

For example, Lukashenko established his own commission for the return of citizens. But what do we see in practice? People who trusted these promises return home and find themselves behind bars. This commission has become yet another tool for luring opposition-minded citizens and then persecuting them.

Another of his initiatives is the scheme for donations. And once again, the result is the same: people pay huge sums, hoping for protection, but instead face arrests and prison sentences. These donations turned out to be another way to extract money from citizens under false pretenses.

Finally, the recently introduced visa-free regime for European citizens also turned out to be a trap. Behind the attractive promises of freedom of movement lies the reality: the regime detained a German citizen and sentenced him to death. This means that even for foreigners, Belarus remains an extremely unsafe place.

All this confirms that returning to a country ruled by Lukashenko's regime is highly risky and dangerous for Belarusians. No "commissions," "compensations," or "repentances" guarantee safety. This is something that everyone currently safe abroad and considering returning home needs to be reminded of.

Source: NAM

Marharyta Vorykhava: “This is an attempt to bind Belarus more tightly to Russia through a new generation of young, intelligent, and talented Belarusians”

Jul 31, 2024

Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya’s Advisor on Youth Policy and Students, Marharyta Vorykhava, comments on the possible compulsory job assignments for Belarusian university and college graduates to Russia:

“The annual increase in quotas for Belarusian youth in Russian universities, reaching a record 1,300 spots for 2024, is not just about education. This is a strategic move to limit access to democratic values and academic freedoms. It’s also an attempt to more tightly bind Belarus to Russia through a new generation of young, intelligent, and talented people.

By attracting Belarusian students and integrating them into the Russian educational and employment systems, Russia aims to mitigate the effects of its demographic crisis. However, this limits the autonomy of Belarusian youth and turns them into ‘human capital’ for the Russian economy.

This policy is being implemented against the backdrop of Russia’s large-scale invasion of Ukraine. Moscow’s attempt to increase control over Belarusian youth and limit their access to European educational and employment opportunities is part of a broader influence and control strategy.

Belarusian youth deserve the right to choose their educational and professional paths without coercion or influence. We are working to expand programs for Belarusian youth to study in European universities and participate in international exchanges”.

Ms. Vorykhava’s full statement in Belarusian is available in the video.

Foreign political prisoners in the prison of Lukashenko's regime

Jul 23, 2024

How many foreigners are in the prison of Lukashenko's regime? Why has Lukashenko taken them hostage? What does he need them for? Why is he negotiating with them? And how is all this related to the sanctions? Today, we will discuss the foreign political prisoners in Lukashenko’s prisons.

Let's start with another question. Why are Belarusian neighboring countries from the EU imposing restrictions at the border? There are several answers to this question: the migration war initiated by Lukashenko with Russia's involvement, the Lukashenko regime's participation in aggression against Ukraine—essentially in the war on the borders of the European Union, the presence of thousands of political prisoners in Belarusian jails, including EU citizens. There can be many answers, but they all share a common characteristic—these are deliberate, targeted, and systemic actions by Lukashenko and his associates, for which only Lukashenko and his associates are responsible.

There is also another significant factor. Both the detention of EU citizens in Belarus, the storming of the borders of EU member states by migrants with the assistance of Lukashenko's security forces, and the recent killing of a Polish soldier at the Poland-Belarus border can be described by one common characteristic. All of these actions pose a threat to the national security of Belarus's neighboring countries. These are actions by the Lukashenko regime that represent a threat to our neighbors.

Foreign citizens, including citizens of EU countries, continue to be held hostage by the regime. Today, citizens of Poland, Latvia, Lithuania, Germany, as well as Ukraine, the USA, and other countries remain in captivity. According to the human rights center “Vesna” about 25 foreign nationals are now held in places of deprivation of liberty on political grounds. They are persecuted for participating in protests, making comments, passing information to independent media, and even to their relatives abroad, and are also accused of “espionage” and “agent activity.”

Recently, the Belarusian information portal Zerkalo.io published a memo highlighting what foreigners should be prepared for if they wish to take advantage of visa-free entry and what risks and consequences such actions may have. The journalists of the publication note that in Belarus, a foreigner can be taken hostage to later negotiate for the regime’s foreign policy goals—an example being a German citizen; a foreigner will have to seriously reconsider their tastes and wardrobe since wearing clothing and accessories in “incorrect” colors can lead to imprisonment in Belarus; the use of unapproved historical symbols is prohibited; criticism of Lukashenko can easily lead to imprisonment, and even death in captivity.

Furthermore, speaking out against the war is prohibited, as an anti-war stance can also lead to imprisonment, and charity work can be considered support for extremism—resulting in the loss of both money and freedom.

And the obvious question arises: how many foreigners are willing to take such risks? How many are ready to accept Mr. Ryzhenkov’s invitation to become hostages in Belarus, to be traded like commodities?

Source: NAM

statement on death sentence given to a foreigner in Belarus

Jul 19, 2024

Leanid Marozau: “Today, Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya’s Office was informed about the case initiated by the Lukashenka regime against a German citizen. Rico Krieger was charged under several terrorism-related articles, resulting in a death sentence after the trial.

We contacted representatives of the German Federal Foreign Office to share evidence showing that a foreign citizen in Belarus faces the death penalty.

Unfortunately, the Lukashenka regime continues to use execution as a form of punishment. In a civilized society, such treatment is unacceptable. However, as we see, the value of human life means nothing to this system. Political prisoners who are dying in prisons due to the regime’s policies are proof of that.

I sincerely hope that through joint efforts, democratic countries can save the life of a person accused of serious crimes on dubious grounds”.

European Political Community Summit: Aid to political prisoners, support for civil society, preservation of Belarusian culture

Jul 19, 2024

Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya participated in the European Political Community Summit in the United Kingdom, where she held negotiations with the leaders of several countries.

⚪️ With the new leadership of the United Kingdom – the Prime Minister, Keir Starmer, and the Foreign Minister, David Lammy, – the Belarusian leader discussed the political situation in Belarus. She emphasized the need to secure the release of political prisoners and support their families, as well as assist civil society and the media. The parties also discussed potential ways to formalize the relations between the UK and democratic forces, joint international initiatives, possible bilateral consultations, and other forms of cooperation between the UK and Belarus’ democratic forces.

🔴 Additionally, the Belarusian leader met with dozens of world politicians, including the Chancellor of Germany, Olaf Scholz, the Prime Minister of Italy, Giorgia Meloni, the Prime Minister of Spain, Pedro Sánchez, and the President of Moldova, Maia Sandu.

The politicians discussed:

📌 Crafting a unified European response to Russian aggression and including Belarus in the international agenda.

📌 Strengthening solidarity and solidifying the European future of a democratic Belarus.

📌 Supporting the fight for freedom and democracy in Belarus, cultural and linguistic revival, as well as humanitarian aid for political prisoners.

📌 Expanding cooperation to include new governments and further strengthening international ties.

⚪️ With the Prime Minister of Ireland, Simon Harris, Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya discussed holding a Belarusian-Irish conference focusing on preserving culture and national identity. Ms. Tsikhanouskaya also informed Mr. Harris about the international humanitarian fund in support of political prisoners and urged Ireland to join it.

Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya met with Foreign Minister of Armenia

Jul 19, 2024

During the European Political Community Summit in the United Kingdom, Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya met with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Armenia, Ararat Mirzoyan.

Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya: “I was pleased to see the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Armenia, as well as Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, at the summit. I expressed words of support and gratitude for their firm stance and support for Belarusians. Armenia recently granted asylum to Belarusians who fled the regime’s repression. Armenia also refused to participate in events organized by the official Minsk. I expressed support for Armenia in its efforts towards European integration”.

“This restriction does not solve any problems”. Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya discussed border closures with Prime Minister of Latvia

Jul 19, 2024

During the European Political Community Summit in the United Kingdom, the Belarusian leader met with the Prime Minister of Latvia, Evika Siliņa.

Ms. Tsikhanouskaya highlighted the contentious nature of the recent decisions by the Baltic states to restrict the entry of Belarusian-registered vehicles. She emphasized that these measures primarily affect Belarusians, not the regime, and called for easing entry rules for individuals.

“We are aware that this restriction was implemented according to EU instructions, and we understand that the restrictions were introduced for security reasons and to close loopholes. However, this particular restriction does not solve any problems. This is a rash decision. Therefore, we ask Latvia and other EU countries to consider broad exemptions. At the same time, I welcome that passenger bus traffic has been maintained,” said Ms. Tsikhanouskaya after the meeting.

The leader has also previously raised the issue of restrictions in meetings with Donald Tusk, Radosław Sikorski, Gitanas Nausėda, and Josep Borrell.

“We have a mutual agreement that restrictions must not affect passenger transportation”. Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya’s comment on restrictions at EU border

Jul 16, 2024

Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya: “Restrictions on the entry of Belarusian-registered vehicles are a hasty and harmful decision. It primarily hurts the people, not the Lukashenka regime. Therefore, we are trying to convince our partners to revert or amend this decision. We are in contact with Poland, Lithuania, and Latvia, emphasizing the need to make exceptions for Belarusians entering the EU in their own cars.

We have a reached mutual agreement that restrictions must not affect passenger transportation. Belarusians living in the European Union will also be able to re-register their cars with European license plates.

However, we are aware that this relief still does not solve the mobility problem for Belarusians. For them, the border with the European Union is a border with the free world. It should be open to Belarusians who do not support the regime and see the future of their country in Europe. We will keep defending Belarusians’ interests”.

Women in Lukashenko’s Prisons are Kept in Cages!

Jul 13, 2024

We are talking about a cell in the literal sense of the word. It’s about 1.5 meters long and 2 meters wide, resembling a rectangular cage with metal bars. There isn’t a chair or even a bench inside. The prison administration forces the women to stand there for the entire duration of their punishment. Sitting is forbidden and will only make their confinement last longer.

The cage is located outside, and prisoners can be put there at any time, regardless of the weather. Women are forced to stand there in the rain, scorching sun, or freezing cold, often for up to three or four hours at a time. If a prisoner is held there until nightfall, she risks missing her meal.

Kasia Budzko, a former political prisoner who spent two and a half years in a women’s prison for her pro-democracy stance, shared this horrifying reality of a Belarusian prison. There are many punishments designed to humiliate and degrade those imprisoned. One of the most appalling is the confinement of political prisoners in a cage.

In Belarus today, it’s easy to end up behind bars. Simply disagreeing with the Lukashenko regime’s ideology is enough. But what will land you in a cage within a cage?

Political prisoners who violate any prison rule are placed there. This could be for fighting, or any other “incident.” The definition of “incident” is extremely broad. A woman can be sent to the cage for having a panic attack or for formally refusing a work assignment. According to former political prisoner Daria Chultsova, every woman in the colony knows that any “rudeness” towards the prison administration will get you sent straight to the cage. “Rudeness” can include any expression of personal opinion. It doesn’t even have to be said in a rude or impolite tone. Simply disagreeing with something and offering an explanation is enough. Even something as small as an incorrectly sewn button is enough to get you thrown in a cage. The administration might also send a woman to the cage as a preventative measure, to demonstrate to other prisoners what happens to those who break the rules.

In reality, no real reason is needed to put someone in a cage. The prison administration acts with impunity. This is a daily practice where humiliation and human rights violations have become the norm.

The cage isn’t just physical violence; it’s psychological torture. The prison administration deliberately creates the most difficult conditions possible for the prisoners.

Putting a person in a cage violates both international and national law. According to materials from the human rights center Viasna, this practice violates Part 2 of Article 10 of the Criminal Executive Code of the Republic of Belarus, as well as Rules 39 and 47 of the UN Standard Minimum Rules for the Treatment of Prisoners (the Nelson Mandela Rules). The right not to be subjected to cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment and the right to humane treatment and respect for the inherent dignity of the human person are being violated.

The resilience of Belarusian women is astounding. According to one former political prisoner, she witnessed a woman stage a protest from inside her cage. Another former prisoner shared a story about a young woman who smiled throughout her entire ordeal. We must all show the same tenacity and persistence in fighting for the freedom of every political prisoner.

It’s important to remember that there are still over 1,400 officially recognized political prisoners and over 5,000 people imprisoned on politically motivated charges in Belarus. They are all living in inhumane conditions, and every single one of them is fighting for their life.

“This is truly horrific news. The fact that Belarusian women are being subjected to such inhumane torture is a blatant violation of international law and the most basic human rights. The world needs to know about the egregious crimes against humanity being committed by the Lukashenko regime, and Lukashenko himself must be held accountable. Our team, the National Anti-Crisis Management, along with our partners, has prepared all the necessary materials to refer the “situation in Belarus” to the International Criminal Court. The basis for this referral is the commission of crimes against humanity by Lukashenko and his accomplices. From May 2020 to May 2023 alone, at least 136,000 Belarusians became victims of crimes against humanity, including murder, enforced disappearances, torture, politically motivated sentences, and more. According to the UN, at least 300,000 Belarusians were forcibly deported from Belarus, primarily to Poland, Lithuania, and Latvia. That’s 3.5% of the Belarusian population. At a recent meeting with Lukashenko in Astana at the SCO summit, UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres directly expressed to the dictator his principled position on the need to end the repression in Belarus. I implore the foreign ministers of Poland, Lithuania, and Latvia, as representatives of the countries most supportive of the Belarusian people, to take a stand, show their will, and refer Lukashenko’s case to the International Criminal Court in The Hague. It’s high time to use every available tool of international and national law to bring this dictator to justice.

People of Belarus, we keep fighting together for the freedom of the European Belarusian people.

Democracy will not prevail in Belarus until the dictator and his accomplices are held accountable,” emphasized Pavel Latushka, deputy head of the United Transitional Cabinet and head of the National Anti-Crisis Management.

Source: NAM

“Lukashenka continues policies started by communists”

Jul 12, 2024

The Belarusian leader participated in an international conference dedicated to Captive Nations Week. The event took place at the Victims of Communism Museum during the NATO Summit in Washington, where participants discussed how the legacy of totalitarianism affects current events in Eastern Europe.

In her speech, the Belarusian leader highlighted the consequences of communism for Belarus.

📎 “Russification: The Belarusian language faced discrimination, and the number of schools teaching in Belarusian decreased. There were deliberate efforts to destroy the culture. Lukashenka continues this policy”.

📎 “Mass repression: Hundreds of thousands of Belarusians were executed or sent to the Gulag. On a single night in 1937, the NKVD killed a hundred representatives of the national elite”.

📎 “Anti-Western agenda: After World War II, the United States and democratic countries were declared the new enemy. Today, Putin and Lukashenka refer to them as the ‘collective West’”.

📎 “Environment: Natural resources were depleted by the centrally planned economy. The Belarusian people and nature suffered the most from the Chornobyl disaster, which was a result of incompetent leadership”.

📎 “Economy: Private property was replaced by state ownership. Today, the most important industries in Belarus are owned by the state – in other words, by Lukashenka and his family”.

📎 “Human rights: There is no freedom of speech or association in Belarus. Just like in communist times, there are no independent media. Most NGOs have been banned and left Belarus, and civil society has been completely destroyed”.

📎 “Dictatorship: We haven’t had democracy in more than 70 years. We couldn’t elect political leaders or local officials who were simply appointed by the party, just as they are appointed by Lukashenka today”.

Medicine under dictatorship

Jul 07, 2024

Karanik claims that Belarus ranks 4th or 5th in the world for its doctor-to-population ratio.

This is a lie.

Recent data reveals a stark decline in the number of doctors in Belarus, plummeting by 7,000 in 2023 alone. The Lukashenko regime began manipulating statistics related to practicing doctors in 2020, coinciding with the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. The motive behind this manipulation was to deceive international organizations, securing funding for Ministry of Health projects.

In June, Belarus celebrated Medical Worker Day, a holiday honoring those in the demanding profession of caring for the sick, alleviating suffering, and saving lives.

On June 12, 2024, a celebratory event marked the 105th anniversary of the Belarusian healthcare system and Medical Workers' Day. At the Palace of the Republic, Kochanova congratulated the assembled doctors. The Chairman of the Council of the Republic stressed the Belarusian government's supposed commitment to healthcare and made a number of hypocritical and cynical pronouncements.

Let's deconstruct the myths propagated by Kochanova

Here is a direct quote from Natallia Kochanova:

“Healthcare is one of the priority areas of state social policy. Funding is allocated, new medical institutions are being built, existing ones are being reconstructed, new modern equipment is being purchased, new pharmaceuticals are being produced at our enterprises, and educational institutions annually train professionals for the healthcare industry.”

Let's examine the reality of healthcare in Belarus.

Here are just a few facts: According to Belstat, the number of healthcare organizations has dwindled from 874 in 1990 to 569 in 2023. This reduction is particularly pronounced in the Viciebsk region (from 161 to 96) and the Mahilou region (from 124 to 56).

Furthermore, it is currently impossible to determine the number of hospital beds available during this period, as Belstat has not released this data for several years.

It is safe to assume that the number of hospital beds is also declining sharply.

Furthermore, Belarusians are increasingly witnessing the closure of medical centers in small villages and towns.

First, libraries and local shops disappeared, replaced by traveling vendors. Then post offices vanished. Now it’s the turn of medical clinics.

Residents of small villages are left without access to basic medical care. They can no longer get quick medical advice, have simple lab tests done, get their blood pressure checked, or have their heart and lungs examined. The closure of hospitals and medical centers has severely impacted access to healthcare. Residents of remote areas must travel long distances to receive medical services, a significant hardship for the elderly and low-income individuals.

Without regular medical supervision, the risk of chronic diseases worsening and new diseases going undetected increases significantly.

This decreased access to healthcare will likely lead to higher healthcare costs in the long run. More complicated and severe medical conditions will arise, requiring more expensive treatments.

But do Lukashenko and his cronies care? This illegitimate regime has secured excellent healthcare for themselves while concealing the true morbidity and mortality rates from the public. They are and will always be indifferent to the health and well-being of the Belarusian people.

The lack of adequate healthcare is driving people out of villages and into cities or abroad. This exodus further weakens already sparsely populated areas and stifles economic activity.

The remaining healthcare facilities are overwhelmed, leading to a decline in the quality of care. Medical professionals are overworked and resources are stretched thin.

And yet, against this backdrop of deterioration and despair, Karanik has the audacity to claim that Belarus ranks 4th or 5th in the world for its doctor-to-population ratio.

This is simply untrue.

To support this claim, Karanik cites Belstat data from the end of 2023, which reports 136,500 medical workers and 53.2 practicing doctors per 10,000 people. However, this data is based on an adjusted methodology for calculating the number of practicing doctors, and Belstat has not provided any details about this new methodology. Instead of using the actual number of working medical specialists (48,134 according to official statistics), they are including all individuals with higher medical education, including administrators, educators, and other non-practicing professionals.

Furthermore, the data on practicing doctors includes all medical professionals, so dentists are being counted as well.

The number of practicing physicians is also presented in full-time equivalents. This means that two doctors working 1.5 full-time equivalents each would be counted as three doctors.

Belstat itself has inadvertently revealed these manipulations.

The latest edition of their annual publication, “Belarus in Figures,” reports 7,400 fewer practicing doctors than the previous year, with a total of 41,300 practicing doctors, or 45.1 per 10,000 people.

Based on the most recent data, the number of doctors in Belarus plummeted by 7,000 in 2023 alone. The Lukashenko regime began actively manipulating statistics on practicing doctors in 2020, coinciding with the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. These manipulations were intended to mislead international organizations, allowing the regime to secure funding for Ministry of Health projects under false pretenses.

As of July 1, 2024, there were 4,943 unfilled vacancies for medical professionals and 4,165 vacancies for nurses.

The Homiel State Medical University website lists 5,351 unfilled healthcare positions in Belarus.

Can Lukashenko's regime find a way out of this crisis?

No.

All legitimate mechanisms for regulating the healthcare labor market have been exhausted. The only remaining options are coercion and repression.

These tactics might stabilize the situation temporarily, but the long-term outlook points to complete collapse.

The Belarusian people have already witnessed the regime's disregard for their health and well-being during the coronavirus pandemic. They saw firsthand that Lukashenko places no value on human life.

The people saw the truth and demanded, "GO AWAY!"

But Lukashenko clings desperately to power, frantically reshuffling his inner circle as he fears a repeat of the 2020 protests.

Source: NAM

More than 10 political prisoners were amnestied and pardoned, among them Ryhor Kastusiou

Jul 05, 2024

On July 2, Aliaksandr Lukashenka signed the Law On Amnesty in Connection with the 80th Anniversary of the Liberation of Belarus from Nazi Invaders. It, like previous similar laws, does not grant amnesty for persons "involved in extremist and terrorist activities." Nevertheless, several political prisoners were released.

As of July 5, Viasna human rights defenders know for certain about 17 political prisoners who were amnestied on July 3. Among them are three women and 14 men, including Ryhor Kastusiou, a cancer patient who was sentenced to 10 years in a penal colony. According to the information of Viasna, some of the political prisoners were pardoned, not amnestied.

Human rights defenders do not publish the names of other released prisoners for their safety.

The fact that political prisoner Ryhor Kastusiou was amnestied was confirmed to human rights defenders by relatives of the political prisoner. 67-year-old chairman of the BPF Party Ryhor Kastusiou was held behind bars for more than three years. He was sentenced to 10 years of imprisonment. In imprisonment, Ryhor's health problems worsened: he was diagnosed with cancer.

Information about other released persons is being checked and clarified.

Sports Representatives of the Lukashenko Regime Denied Entry to Olympic Games

Jul 01, 2024

Throughout 2023, the National Anti-Crisis Management team meticulously compiled dossiers on 179 Belarusian athletes affiliated with military or security forces operating under the Lukashenko regime. These dossiers were then submitted to international partners. As a result of this effort, it has been confirmed that several of these athletes have been deemed ineligible to compete in the upcoming Olympic Games in Paris.

In December 2023, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) Executive Committee established stringent eligibility criteria for the participation of Belarusian athletes in the 2024 Paris Games. Subsequently, in March 2024, the IOC Executive Board formed the Athlete Individual Eligibility Review Panel (AINERP).

The AINERP is responsible for verifying the eligibility of athletes holding Russian or Belarusian passports to participate in the 2024 Olympic Games, based on the decisions made by the IOC Executive Board and established principles. This verification process involves drawing upon information from various sources, including official lists of athletes associated with military and security forces in Belarus.

In accordance with the established verification rules, not all athletes under review were deemed eligible or invited to participate in the Paris Olympics. The National Anti-Crisis Management played a crucial role in providing information about Belarusian athletes with ties to military structures. This information included details about prominent figures such as Irina Kurochkina and Vanessa Kolodinskaya, both leaders within the wrestling team.

The list of eligible athletes will be subject to updates based on ongoing AINERP decisions.

"The formation of a dedicated group to assess athletes' compliance with IOC criteria, along with the denial of entry to Belarusian athletes linked to military structures, represents a significant step towards safeguarding the integrity of sport and protecting it from political manipulation," said Pavel Latushka, Deputy Head of the United Transitional Cabinet and Head of the National Anti-Crisis Management. "The unwavering commitment of free athletes to upholding Olympic values must not be in vain."

Source: NAM

“Belarus receives revived attention”: Franak Viacorka and Dzianis Kuchynski participated in conference on Ukraine and Belarus in EU

Jul 01, 2024

Chief Advisor to Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, Franak Viacorka, and Diplomatic Advisor, Dzianis Kuchynski, participated in the conference “The EU Integration Prospects for Ukraine and Belarus: Assessing the future”. The event was held in London and featured officials, politicians, experts, and representatives of the EU and its member states’ special envoys for Belarus.

The Belarusian section focused on Belarusians’ readiness for a European choice and a European future. Additionally, discussions addressed what the EU and European bodies can do to support Belarus on its path to European integration.

Franak Viacorka notes that the Belarusian issue is returning to the agenda.

“In London, the issue of Belarus is rarely discussed, so the conference and its level show that interest is returning. In a week, an election will take place in the UK, and it is crucial that the new government keeps Belarus on the agenda and has a developed strategy vis-a-vis Belarus. Perhaps the points discussed at today’s conference will be included in this strategy. Today’s discussion on Ukraine and Belarus has proven to be very timely”, comments the advisor.

The full comment on the conference is available in Belarusian in video.

Armed conflict between Russia and Ukraine on the territory of Belarus

Jun 29, 2024

On June 28th, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced the release of Ukrainian citizens, some previously recognized as political prisoners, from detention under the Lukashenko regime.

NAM expert opinion on the matter

Although Belarus committed an act of aggression against Ukraine by allowing its territory to be used as a staging ground for the Russian invasion, it is not legally considered a party to the armed conflict. Article 2 of the Geneva Conventions of 1949 outlines the conditions for recognizing a state as a party to an armed conflict, and Belarus does not meet these criteria.

Assuming the exchange adhered to the rules of the Fourth Geneva Convention of 1949, the parties involved were Russia and Ukraine, the two countries engaged in an international armed conflict. Therefore, the civilians returned to Ukraine, despite being detained in Belarus, were de jure handed over to Russia and treated as internees under Articles 41, 42, 43, 68, and 78 of the Fourth Geneva Convention.

Ukraine and Russia have established procedures for exchanging prisoners of war and interned civilians. This instance falls under that existing framework, with Belarus remaining legally outside the process.

However, this situation, along with other instances of direct military activity, provides further evidence that the armed conflict between Russia and Ukraine has extended into Belarusian territory. Therefore, while Belarus may not be a party to the conflict, it is accurate to state that the conflict is taking place on Belarusian soil between Ukraine and Russia.

Source: NAM

OSCE as the Main Platform for Initiatives on Accountability of the Lukashenko Regime

Jun 28, 2024

Restoring the rights of victims of serious international crimes in Belarus was the central focus of meetings held by Pavel Latushka, Deputy Head of the United Transitional Cabinet of Belarus and Head of the National Anti-Crisis Management (NAM), with permanent representatives of democratic countries to the OSCE on June 27-28, 2024, in Vienna.

Mr. Latushka and NAM lawyers met with representatives from Poland, Lithuania, Latvia, Canada, the USA, Great Britain, Germany, France, the EU, and Liechtenstein. During these meetings, they presented their position on the potential of underutilized OSCE mechanisms in addressing the situation in Belarus, emphasizing their importance in restoring the rights of victims. The nature of the discussions suggests that partner actions in this direction are forthcoming.

At the request of the OSCE permanent representatives, Mr. Latushka provided updates on the Lukashenko regime's continued support for Russia's war against Ukraine and the regime's escalation of the migration crisis on the border with the European Union.

The illegal movement of civilians from Russian-occupied territories in Ukraine to Belarus was also a point of concern. Several permanent representatives from European countries highlighted the advisability of establishing a unified platform within the OSCE, potentially through a "friends of democratic Belarus" group, to coordinate all initiatives related to accountability in the Belarusian context.

Pavel Latushka also briefed his partners on the concerning situation of Andrei Gnyot, a Belarusian activist and film director, and the risks associated with his potential extradition from Serbia to Belarus. Key partner countries are closely monitoring the situation, indicating a commitment to providing the necessary diplomatic and legal support.

Furthermore, at the request of the permanent representatives, Pavel Latushka shared information about the results of the Coordination Council elections and ongoing efforts to strengthen Belarusian democratic institutions.

Source: NAM

Appeal from the People's Embassies of Belarus to Belarusian Diplomats

Jun 28, 2024

Appeal from the People's Embassies of Belarus to Belarusian Diplomats

Following the unexpected passing of former Belarusian Ambassador to Germany, Denis Sidarenka, the People's Embassies of Belarus extend their condolences to his family and loved ones. In light of this event, we appeal to the diplomats who continue to serve the current Lukashenko regime.

We urge you to critically reassess your position and join the democratic forces working to restore rights and freedoms in Belarus. The regime you support has consistently shown a willingness to betray and eliminate not only its opponents but also those loyal to it, once they become redundant or inconvenient.

Choosing democracy is a step towards ensuring your own safety and striving for a better future for our country.

The People's Embassies of Belarus stand ready to offer support and assistance to those who take this courageous step or wish to establish contact while remaining in their current positions.

Contact for communication: free@belarusabroad.org

Coordination Council on the Agenda of the "Belarus-EU" Consultative Group

Jun 26, 2024

"The third convocation of the Coordination Council commenced its work on June 12th. We are currently developing a revised set of regulations to ensure the Council operates with maximum efficiency, both now and in the future. We plan to hold our first open general meeting in the coming days, during which the leadership will be elected," stated Angelika Melnikova, Coordination Council delegate and member of the " Latushka’s Team and Movement 'For Freedom'" coalition, during her participation in the third meeting of the III EU Consultative Group with Belarusian democratic forces. Melnikova's address focused on the results of the Coordination Council elections and the current state of affairs within the organization.

While the general political strategy of the Coordination Council will be determined through consensus among its members, several key areas of activity are already emerging:

Serving voters and advocating for their interests: The legitimacy of the Coordination Council hinges on its ability to effectively address the needs of Belarusians both within the country and abroad. Our actions will be paramount.
Strengthening ties with communities inside Belarus: this will involve a renewed emphasis on the political agenda and the rebuilding of a vibrant network of contacts.
Enhancing the image of the Coordination Council and democratic forces among Belarusians: greater focus will be placed on media engagement, including outreach to bloggers who maintain a significant audience within Belarus.
Collaborating with partners to simplify visa procedures and increase contact among people (those Belarusians who emigrated and those who stayed in Belarus): expanding efforts to support and mobilize the Belarusian diaspora will be crucial.
Expanding interaction and cooperation with the United Transitional Cabinet: discussions are underway to enhance the Coordination Council's influence on the appointment of Cabinet members and broaden its overall powers.
Strengthening cooperation with national parliaments of partner countries: this includes fostering closer ties with parliamentary institutions such as the European Parliament and the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE).

Maintaining a key role in organizing sectoral consultations: the Coordination Council will continue to play a leading role in assessing the needs of a democratic Belarus.

Source: NAM

“Belarusians must see that European perspective is the only alternative to the Russian world”

Jun 25, 2024

Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya launched the meeting of the Belarus–European Union Consultative Group in Brussels. The third meeting of representatives of Belarus’ democratic forces and the Western partners focused on several issues:

⚪️ The political situation in Belarus and human rights;

🔴 Accountability for the regime;

⚪️ Preparations for the 2025 presidential campaign;

🔴 Efforts to free political prisoners;

⚪️ Mobility of Belarusians.

Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya emphasized the search for solutions to these problems during her speech:

📌 “To defeat the regime, we must achieve understanding and support from the people. Now, more than ever, we need to strengthen independent media and our national identity”.

📌 “Belarusians must see that the European perspective is the only alternative to the Russian world. Belarusians need to feel that Europe stands by them and that Europe’s doors will be open when the time comes”.

📌 “In 2025, Lukashenka hopes to be ‘re-elected’. However, we must not allow the regime to ‘turn over the page’ and return to how things were before. This ‘election’ will not be recognized by either Belarusians or the international community. We will use this campaign to mobilize our supporters and draw attention to the situation in Belarus”.

📌 “Our current priority must be to support Belarusians’ potential. We need to support the people who continue to fight, both inside the country and in exile. I am confident that a new window of opportunity will open – and we must all be ready for it”.

Sweden Supports Democratic Belarus Without Lukashenko

Jun 25, 2024

On June 25th, Swedish Foreign Minister Tobias Billström met with representatives of Belarusian democratic forces, including members of the NAM team. During the meeting, the minister pledged to make every effort to ensure that Belarus remains a priority for Europe.

Citing the Lukashenko regime's complicity in the aggression against Ukraine and its widespread human rights violations, the minister emphasized that Europe will continue to monitor the situation in Belarus closely. He affirmed Sweden's commitment to supporting Belarusians and expressed his belief that Belarus's future lies with Europe.

Minister Billström placed particular emphasis on the importance of Belarusian culture and language, as well as educational opportunities for Belarusian citizens in Europe. He also highlighted the significance of initiatives that foster unity within Belarusian society.

A NAM representative present at the meeting stressed that lasting peace and harmony in Belarus are unattainable without justice being served upon members of the Lukashenko regime and accountability for those who have suffered from repression. The Swedish minister was urged to support initiatives by Belarusian democratic forces within the OSCE framework, as well as efforts to hold members of the regime accountable through the International Criminal Court and the International Court of Justice.

Source: NAM

UN established Human Rights Expert Group on Belarus

Jun 21, 2024

The President of the Human Rights Council has appointed the members of the new Group of Independent Experts on Human Rights in Belarus. The group includes Susan Bazilli (Canada), Karinna Moskalenko (Russian Federation), and Monika Stanisława Płatek (Poland).

The Legal Team of the Office of Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya notes: “The establishment of such an expert group is an unprecedented procedure for Belarus. It testifies to the high-level attention from international human rights organizations to what is happening in our country. The events of 2020 and subsequent years are not forgotten. Crimes will be investigated, and the perpetrators will be held internationally accountable”.

What are the duties of the Human Rights Expert Group on Belarus?

📎 Investigating and establishing the facts, circumstances, and causes of human rights violations and abuses committed in Belarus since May 1, 2020;

📎 Collecting, summarizing, preserving, and analyzing evidence of such violations and abuses. Identifying perpetrators where possible, considering judicial and other proceedings, including criminal prosecution in courts and tribunals;

📎 Making recommendations on measures to hold the perpetrators accountable in order to end impunity in Belarus;

📎 Ensuring accountability and access to justice and effective remedies, including compensation for victims;

📎 Cooperating with all interested parties (Belarusian, as well as regional and international civil society, international human rights organizations) to exchange information and take actions to hold the perpetrators of human rights violations in Belarus accountable.

The Legal Team of Sviatlana Tsikhanoyskaya’s Office continues to actively cooperate with the mandate of the UN Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Belarus. In particular, it has prepared a set of documents on human rights violations in Belarus and methods of holding all perpetrators internationally accountable to make sure the joint work with the UN Human Rights Expert Group on Belarus can begin as soon as possible.

Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya met with Foreign Minister of Armenia

Jun 20, 2024

The Belarusian leader met with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Armenia, Ararat Mirzoyan, in Vilnius. During their dialogue, they discussed the political situation in Belarus, Armenia, and the region, as well as the cooperation of Belarus’ democratic forces with the government, Parliament, and civil society of Armenia.

Mr. Mirzoyan and Ms. Tsikhanouskaya separately talked about the situation of Belarusians in Armenia, specifically discussing the non-extradition of Belarusian citizens at the request of the Lukashenka regime.

At the end of the meeting, the Belarusian leader expressed hope for continued close cooperation between Armenia and the democratic forces of Belarus. Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya emphasized that the people of Armenia and Belarus deserve a free, democratic, and European future.

Latvia stands for holding the Lukashenko regime accountable for atrocities against the Belarusian people

Jun 20, 2024

“Citizens of Belarus who visit Latvia in personal cars with Belarusian registration will be able to continue to enter the territory of Latvia,” noted Latvian Foreign Minister Baiba Braže during the meeting with the deputy head of the United Transitional Cabinet of Belarus, head of the National Anti-Crisis Management Pavel Latushka, in response to the corresponding appeal from the representative of the democratic forces of Belarus.

Pavel Latushka informed the Latvian Foreign Minister about the results of the elections to the Coordination Council and about the actions of the democratic forces of Belarus aimed at strengthening the three institutions of democratic forces: the President-Elect, the United Transitional Cabinet, and the Coordination Council.

Pavel Latushka outlined the importance of achieving accountability, both for Lukashenko personally and for his representatives, for the illegal displacement of Ukrainian children and for the ongoing crimes against humanity committed against the Belarusian people. He presented detailed information about the work of the NAM team in these areas.

Ms Braže emphasized the importance of holding “the Lukashenko regime accountable for atrocities against the Belarusian people and joint aggression against Ukraine.” Latvia also advocates increasing EU sanctions pressure on the Lukashenko regime to “limit the possibility of circumventing sanctions against Russia” by limiting the transit of goods passing through Belarus into the Russian Federation when Belarus is used to circumvent European sanctions imposed on Russia for its aggression against Ukraine. The Latvian Foreign Minister noted her readiness to consider NAM proposals to introduce Latvian national personal and economic sanctions.

During the discussion of increasing sanctions pressure on the Lukashenko regime, Ms Braže informed Pavel Latushka that a sanctions package against Russia had been agreed upon, which opens up opportunities for further coordination of the sanctions package against the Lukashenko regime. This package should be aimed at harmonizing sanctions against Russia and the Lukashenko regime. They discussed the existing challenges for agreeing on this package and possible assistance from the democratic forces of Belarus for its adoption.

In connection with an appeal from Belarusian citizens, who note the visits of European countries by representatives of Belarusian propaganda, as well as persons who are a potential threat to national security, the NAM team will prepare proposals for introducing personal sanctions against these representatives and transfer them to Latvia.

The topic related to the legalization of Belarusian citizens located in Latvia was also raised. The Foreign Minister informed Mr. Latushka that Belarusians would have the opportunity to apply for refugee status or international protection and subsequently receive an international travel document.

Ms Braže emphasized that possible restrictions on Belarusian vehicles will not apply to personal cars of Belarusian citizens with Belarusian registration.

Source: NAM

Lukashenko's officials are admitting that sanctions are hitting the regime hard

Jun 15, 2024

Deputy Prime Minister Piotr Parkhomchik recently admitted at a recent meeting with Lukashenko that sanctions, which are supposedly making Lukashenko’s regime stronger, have actually hurt wood pellet production in Belarus.

Before 2020, Belarus had established approximately 60 pellet production facilities, with a total capacity of about a million tons per year. Parkhomchik noted that these enterprises were created to meet the high demand for these products in Europe. However, according to the Deputy Prime Minister, supplies to Europe have been suspended. Unsurprisingly, Parkhomchik fails to explain the reasons behind this suspension or who is responsible. He conveniently overlooks the mass repressions in Belarus, the migration crisis on the EU borders, and the Lukashenko regime's complicity in Russia's aggression against Ukraine.

Sanctions are also impacting cross-border payments processed by banks. This information comes not from Parkhomchik, but from a recent report by National Bank. Specifically, at the National Bank's initiative, commercial banks have begun advising corporate clients on navigating international settlements. To facilitate the evasion of financial sanctions, the National Bank has even established a dedicated working group to coordinate foreign economic settlements. Banks have also taken steps “to clear suspended payments, including using alternative systems for transmitting financial information or clearing mechanisms.”

One such system employed for conducting transactions is the Financial Message System of the Bank of Russia (SPFS). We have brought this to the attention of David O’Sullivan, the EU Special Representative for Sanctions, as a means of circumventing the imposed restrictions. Consequently, the EU, along with the G7 countries, is prepared to implement restrictions against SPFS in upcoming sanctions packages.

Chairman of the State Customs Committee, Vladimir Orlovsky, has gone even further by exposing all of Lukashenko’s schemes for illegally circumventing the existing sanctions. While Lukashenko and his officials claim they can do without trade with the West and will simply reorient towards the East, it appears they still heavily rely on Western goods and are willing to go to any lengths to obtain them.

Orlovsky revealed at a meeting of the Council of the Republic on April 10 that Lukashenko was compelled to sign a document implementing a series of anti-sanctions measures. This document "creates conditions for the possibility of selling goods, exported from the European Union to third countries in transit through Belarus, from temporary storage warehouses to Belarusian enterprises."

Orlovsky explains that, for instance, equipment is documented as being in transit from Europe to Asia but is then sold to a Belarusian enterprise within Belarus. He admits that current legislation does not allow for such sales, effectively acknowledging that Lukashenko’s regime is engaging in state-sponsored sanctions evasion, even violating its own laws. Orlovsky also shared that to circumvent sanctions, equipment is often imported in parts, utilizing complex, multi-stage logistics chains.

However, the most striking admission that sanctions are impacting the regime came from Lukashenko’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Valentin Rybakov. He labeled the sanctions against the Lukashenko regime as nothing short of an act of terrorism!

Despite the rhetoric from Lukashenko’s administration about the severe impact of sanctions, some so-called experts are attempting to argue that these sanctions are ineffective and should be abandoned altogether. The louder the regime officials complain about sanctions, the louder the calls to end them become.

We, however, will continue to collaborate with our international partners to strengthen sanctions pressure on Lukashenko’s criminal regime.

Pavel Latushka, Deputy Head of the United Transitional Cabinet of Belarus, Head of the National Anti-Crisis Management, Ambassador.

Source: NAM

“What regime is doing to our loved ones is called torture”

Jun 14, 2024

During her working visit to Washington, the Belarusian leader participated in a hearing of the Helsinki Commission, the US Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe. This independent US government body deals with monitoring human rights and the implementation of the Helsinki Accords.

In her speech, Ms. Tsikhanouskaya highlighted the daily repression in Belarus and the horrific conditions in which people are held in prisons. She called on the international community to intensify pressure on the regime to ensure the swift release of those imprisoned.

Here are the key points from Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya’s speech:

📌 “People behind bars are kept fully incommunicado. They might see the sky once a day during a brief walk in the prison yard. They are deprived of medical and legal assistance and any communication with the outside world. What the regime is doing to our loved ones is called torture”.

📌 “When you are in the hands of the KGB, your chances of release are close to zero. They will record a video where you confess to crimes you did not commit. The KGB posts these videos on YouTube as a means of spreading fear and hopelessness”.

📌 “For political prisoners and their families, there is a form of torture known as incommunicado detention. This is when political prisoners receive no word from their relatives. Most mothers can’t go a day without calling their children. But the parents of political prisoners do not have that luxury”.

📌 “Political prisoners are not only a political issue but also a humanitarian one. I urge the US to support our call to the UN Secretary-General to ensure access to those behind bars. We must hold the perpetrators accountable. Judges, prosecutors, prison administrators, propagandists, Lukashenka, and all his cronies must know that every crime will be documented and prosecuted by law”.

Legal Team’s comment on Serbia’s decision to extradite Andrei Hniot to Belarus

Jun 13, 2024

On June 13, the lawyers of movie director Andrei Gnet received the decision of the Higher Court in Belgrade on Andrei’s possible extradition to Belarus. If extradited for criminal prosecution, Andrei will inevitably face a severe prison term for his peaceful civil activism and exercising his rights.

During the months Andrei has been in custody in Belgrade, the Legal Team of Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya’s Office has made every effort to prevent his extradition. We have been in touch with diplomatic representatives of EU countries, lawyers, human rights defenders, attorneys, and journalists to ensure his release.

Please note that the court’s decision does not mean our efforts were in vain. Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya’s Office continues to fight for Andrei Hniot’s freedom. We have already informed European diplomats in Belgrade of the decision. Andrei’s lawyers are preparing documents for an appeal. He has also been provided contacts to receive legal assistance for an application to the European Court of Human Rights if necessary. Information on Andrei Hniot’s case has been sent to the European Commission. We remain in close contact with Andrei, providing him with assistance and support.

We urge everyone to support Andrei in this fight in every way possible!

Share information about Andrei’s situation if it is safe for you to do so. Send letters to Serbian diplomatic missions demanding his release. We are doing everything we can to ensure Andrei can leave Serbia and move to a safe third country. With your support, Andrei will reach safety and reunite with his loved ones much sooner.

Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya met with US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan

Jun 12, 2024

During the discussion, the parties addressed the need for comprehensive support for Belarus and Ukraine. Ms. Tsikhanouskaya spoke about Belarusian volunteer fighters and aid workers in Ukraine, emphasizing the importance of Ukraine’s victory for a democratic transition in Belarus. She raised the issue of the military and political situation in Belarus, highlighting the negligible public support for joining the war and unification with Russia.

A crucial topic of the talks was strengthening pressure on the Lukashenka regime. Ms. Tsikhanouskaya stressed that restrictions should have no loopholes and must aim at the release of political prisoners, targeting the regime and its assistance to Russia in the war.

Ms. Tsikhanouskaya also underscored the importance of issuing visas and supporting Belarusian civil society in exile as Belarusians need to remain mobile while the regime must be isolated.

Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya met with Nancy Pelosi and US Senators

Jun 12, 2024

During the first day of her visit to Washington, Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya met with former Speaker of the US House of Representatives, Nancy Pelosi, as well as US Senators, Jeanne Shaheen, Dick Durbin, and Peter Welch.

Ms. Tsikhanouskaya praised American leadership in opposing dictators. She called for supporting the Belarusian democratic community and increasing pressure on the regime to release political prisoners and end Belarus’ involvement in Russia’s war against Ukraine. The leader discussed the results of the Coordination Council election and the democratic forces’ plans for 2025.

During the meeting, the parties discussed:

📌The draft of a new Belarus Democracy Act, which would strengthen the agency of Belarus’ democratic forces and could contribute to increased support for Belarus;

📌A campaign in support of political prisoners in Belarus, particularly imprisoned journalists, and possible steps for their release;

📌Sanctions against the Lukashenka regime;

📌Continued and expanded support for free media, repressed individuals, cultural, and human rights initiatives;

📌Support for repressed individuals;

📌Belarus-related events during the NATO Summit;

📌Support for the Belarusian diaspora in the USA.

Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya called for distinguishing between the Belarusian people and the regime and noted that Belarus must not become a consolation prize for Putin.

Luxembourg Solutions: Conference on issues faced by Belarusians in exile

Jun 10, 2024

On June 6-7, an international conference took place in Luxembourg on the problems faced by exiled Belarusians. The event, organized by the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe in cooperation with the Luxembourg Parliament, was attended by Luxembourg’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Xavier Bettel, the President of the PACE, Theodoros Rousopoulos, diplomats and politicians from more than 20 countries, as well as representatives of Belarus’ democratic forces, media, business associations, and cultural initiatives.

During the meetings with the leadership of Luxembourg, Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya discussed the implementation of the PACE recommendations on simplifying the visa and legalization procedures for Belarusians at the EU level; support for the repressed and political prisoners through the humanitarian fund, as well as for independent media, civil society, and Belarusian culture; and preparations for the peace summit on Ukraine, the NATO summit and the UN General Assembly.

Belarus was represented at Confidence in Tomorrow Conference for first time

Jun 05, 2024

Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya’s Advisor on Youth Policy and Students, Marharyta Vorykhava, participated in the Confidence in Tomorrow Conference in Strasbourg. The event was held on the occasion of the 75th anniversary of the Council of Europe and was attended by the Secretary General of the Council of Europe, Marija Pejčinović Burić, the Council of Europe’s Commissioner for Human Rights, Michael O’Flaherty, and the President of the European Youth Forum, María Rodríguez Alcázar.

Belarus was represented at such an event for the first time thanks to the efforts of Belarusian youth organizations, the active work of democratic forces, and international partners. Previously, the country had not participated in such meetings due to the political isolation of the regime.

During the conference, Marharyta Vorykhava highlighted the repression against Belarusian youth organizations and called on the international community to support and protect them. She emphasized the importance of access to European education for Belarusian youth: “To involve young Belarusians in democratic processes, we need greater efforts and assistance from European partners”.

“Such events increase the international community’s awareness of the problems faced by Belarusian youth and intensify comprehensive pressure on the regime. This is an opportunity to raise additional resources for youth organizations and projects, as well as a step towards expanding exchange programs and educational projects”, – commented Marharyta Vorykhava.

RESULTS OF ELECTIONS TO THE COORDINATION COUNCIL

Jun 04, 2024

On May 28, the results of the Coordination Council election were announced. Eight electoral lists out of twelve announced were included in the third convocation. Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya held video calls with new delegates of the Coordination Council, as well as with members of the lists that did not make it to the body.

The Belarusian leader thanked the delegates for participating in the election and expressed support for those who were persecuted for their activity during the election campaign. The main topics of discussion were the role of the Coordination Council, priority areas of work, cooperation with the United Transitional Cabinet, and the ways the Coordination Council could strengthen the democratic forces.

“We are working for a common cause, and we share one common goal – a free Belarus”, the Belarusian leader commented on the online meetings. “It was important for me to hear everyone. I see that people who ran for the Coordination Council are willing to work. I am especially glad to see new people who have taken a big risk and joined political work”.

Bringing Lukashenko to justice will improve security in Europe

Jun 03, 2024

Pavel Latushka participated in the “Faces of the New Europe” discussion panel at the 10th International European Conference in Gdansk. The event took place at the European Solidarity Centre, a location imbued with the history of European transformation.

“There is a well-known expression, ‘elephant in the room,’” Latushka noted during the discussion. “Well, this elephant isn’t going anywhere if we ignore it. It will destroy everything and everyone around it. This elephant is Russia. And it’s already here, in our European home. We might be scared, all of Europe might be, but there’s another saying: “Eat an elephant one bite at a time”. The Lukashenko regime in Belarus, Russia’s closest ally, is exactly the bite we need to take if we want to get rid of the elephant for good. And it’s a bite that Europe can definitely chew.”

The discussion panel included Basil Kerski, director of the European Solidarity Center in Gdansk; David Gregosz, a political scientist and director of the Polish office of the Konrad Adenauer Foundation; Mykola Kniazhitsky, a member of the Ukrainian Parliament and co-chair of the parliamentary group on relations with Poland; and Iwona Reichardt, deputy editor-in-chief of "New Eastern Europe" magazine.

While participating in the discussion panel, Pavel Latushka noted: “If democracy had won in Belarus in 2020, then there might not have been a war. The lack of a clear strategy towards Belarus, both in 2020 and today, is a crucial issue that will determine the future of Belarus and Belarusians in the European Union. Solidarity is incredibly important to us, and it is deeply meaningful that we are discussing this in Gdansk, the birthplace of the Solidarity movement.

At the same time, we know that the future of Belarus ultimately depends on us, Belarusians. Our priority right now is preventing a new Berlin Wall from dividing Belarus and Europe. We understand the importance of national security for all EU members, and we ask our European partners to keep the doors open for Belarusians – making it easier to obtain visas, including digital visas. This would demonstrate Europe’s commitment to Belarusians, as well as its effectiveness in supporting those who still believe in democracy. I’m talking about the matter of the Lukashenko regime’s responsibility.

On my personal channel, I recently conducted a poll asking Belarusians which of our coalition's working priorities they consider to be most important. Seventy-five percent of Belarusians who responded said that holding the Lukashenko regime and its collaborators accountable for their crimes is paramount.

It is also important to talk about formally recognizing the institutions that are building democratic power. Belarusians today are fighting for democracy, which means they are fighting for their future in Europe. They have faced horrific repression and torture in their own country. It is crucial to understand this and to respond with a clear action plan that supports their struggle.”

The main takeaway from the Polish and Ukrainian participants in the discussion was the importance of “unconditional support for Ukraine, which is fighting for its territorial integrity against the aggressor, and democratic Belarus, whose people are fighting and also suffering from violence and repression.”

During his visit to Gdansk, Latushka also had a brief meeting with the city’s mayor, Aleksandra Dulkiewicz. Mayor Dulkiewicz invited Latushka to a more in-depth meeting to discuss the concerns of Belarusians living in Gdansk. They agreed to compile a list of questions in advance to ensure a productive meeting. Latushka also met with Jacek Karnowski, a member of the Polish parliament’s group on cooperation with democratic Belarus, and they agreed to a follow-up meeting in Warsaw with other members of the group.

Source: NAM

The Swedish Commercial Employees' Union has transferred 30,000 kronor to support Belarusian volunteers fighting for freedom in Ukraine

May 28, 2024

The decision to support the Belarusian heroes was made at the union's meeting in April following a presentation by a representative of the People's Embassy of Belarus in Sweden.

We sincerely thank the union for their generous support!

Source: People's Embassy of Belarus in Sweden

“We must not allow new Iron Curtain between Belarus and Europe – that’s what dictators want”

May 27, 2024

The Belarusian leader spoke at a session of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe. She congratulated Lithuania on assuming the Presidency of the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe and called for granting democratic Belarus an observer status in the Committee of Ministers.

Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya: “Allow me to congratulate Lithuania on assuming the Presidency of the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe. As you know, Lithuania is not just our neighbor. It is a dedicated ally in our struggle for freedom.

I am grateful to the Parliamentary Assembly and each of your countries and parliaments for the consistent policy in liberating Belarus and sovereign Ukraine.

To succeed, we need, on the one hand, to isolate dictators Putin and Lukashenka, and on the other hand, to support the people fighting for freedom. Sanctions are not a silver bullet but a tool to weaken dictatorial regimes and deprive them of resources for war and repression. They should not have loopholes or exceptions. While isolating Lukashenka, I ask you not to isolate the Belarusian people.

Thank you to the Parliamentary Assembly for adopting the January resolution on Belarus, which calls for supporting the mobility of Belarusians, issuing visas, and strengthening people-to-people ties. We must not allow a new Iron Curtain between Belarus and Europe – that’s what dictators want.

It is time to strengthen cooperation between the PACE and Belarusian democratic forces. This will allow us to not only learn and practice democracy but also develop an effective strategy vis-a-vis Belarus.

We want Belarus to join the Council of Europe. This will be our first step towards integration into the European Union. Meanwhile, please support our call to grant democratic Belarus an observer status in the Committee of Ministers. Let’s deprive the illegitimate regime in Minsk of the right to represent Belarus. I know this is unprecedented. But we live in non-conventional times. And such times require non-conventional solutions”.

#WithoutJustCause Congress on Political Prisoners in Prague

May 27, 2024

From May 23 to 25, Prague hosted the #WithoutJustCause Congress on Political Prisoners. It was attended by the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Czech Republic, Jana Marian. Among the participants was Nobel Peace Prize laureate Oleksandra Matviichuk (her Ukrainian "Center for Civil Liberties" received the prize in 2022 along with Belarusian political prisoner Ales Bialiatski and the Russian human rights organization "Memorial").

Representatives from The Office of Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, The United Transitional Cabinet, The Coordination Council, The Belarusian Helsinki Committee, "Viasna," DissidentBY, BYhelp, and "A Country to Live in" foundation also participated in the Congress. The head of our Foundation shared that during the congress, participants summarized information on what is specifically lacking, what can be improved, and what needs attention in the system of assistance to political prisoners.

"This is the first event of this format on the topic of political prisoners in almost four years," said Olga Zazulinskaya, head of the "A Country to Live in" foundation. "All the speakers were well-prepared, there were many statistics and presentations. It was valuable to listen to domestic political prisoners and former political prisoners during the congress. The only thing that, of course, disappointed me was the weak media coverage. Radio Liberty and Nasha Niva were present and covered the event on their platforms, for which I am very grateful."

The congress addressed two main discussion vectors: families of political prisoners and former political prisoners both inside the country and abroad. Participants analyzed the needs of these groups and the problems they face both within the country and when relocating. "It was noted that even the existing assistance is insufficient to fully meet all the needs. Particular attention was paid to the issue of assistance within the country, to the difficulties people face every day: the conditions of detention of political prisoners, incommunicado regime, lack of medical care in pre-trial detention centers and colonies," noted Olga Zazulinskaya. According to statistics, repression not only continues but is gaining momentum again.

"I believe that events of this format are simply necessary, and it is desirable that they become regular. I think it is important to invite relatives of political prisoners and former political prisoners because they show the real state of affairs, and we need this to build further work in this field."

Source: "A Country to Live in" Foundation

Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya informed foreign diplomats and politicians about aid needed for Belarus

May 23, 2024

On the sidelines of the Stockholm Conference on Belarus, a non-public panel discussion took place, involving diplomats, officials, and politicians from EU countries and the USA. The discussion was organized by International IDEA and the Lithuanian Embassy in Sweden, headed by former Minister of Foreign Affairs and Lithuanian Ambassador to Belarus, Linas Linkevičius.

“Sanctions alone are not enough to change the regime. Change can only happen from within and only thanks to the Belarusians. Some politicians forget that. This is why sanctions must be combined with aid to the people”, said Ms. Tsikhanouskaya.

The Belarusian leader called for assistance to Belarusian independent media, civil society, families of the repressed, trade unions, human rights defenders, and democratic forces’ institutions.

Ms. Tsikhanouskaya also invited the countries to formalize their relations with the democratic forces. “We ask you to formalize relations with the Belarusian democratic forces, appoint special envoys, and refrain from presenting credentials to the illegitimate Lukashenka. Support the opening of our representative offices in your capitals and create groups “For a Democratic Belarus” in your parliaments, as done here in the Riksdag”, Ms. Tsikhanouskaya emphasized.

Sweden announced five million kronor contribution to support political prisoners in Belarus

May 21, 2024

During the conference in Stockholm dedicated to the Day of Solidarity with Political Prisoners in Belarus, the Minister of Sweden for International Development Cooperation and Foreign Trade, Johan Forssell, announced that the country is allocating five million Swedish kronor (over 400,000 euros) to the international humanitarian fund for victims of repressions in Belarus established recently in Norway to support political prisoners and their families.

Mr. Forssell noted that deepening dialogue with the Belarusian democratic forces in exile, led by Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, is a priority for Swedish policy. “It is important to us that the outside world does not forget the people fighting for a free, democratic, and independent Belarus”, the politician emphasized.

“Situation in Belarus echoes that of Stalin’s era”

May 16, 2024

Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya participated in the International Impact Conference in Poznań, Poland. Over two days, speakers discuss current issues faced by Europe covering various aspects. In particular, politicians like Michelle Obama, Radosław Sikorski, and Sanna Marin, scientists like Timothy Snyder and Ivan Krastev, as well as bank executives, top athletes, and media and technology professionals share their views on regional problems and ways to solve them.

The Belarusian leader discussed the prospects of a political change in Belarus and answered questions.

Here are the main points about the situation in Belarus highlighted by Ms. Tsikhanouskaya in her speech:

📌 “Terror and repression. The situation in Belarus echoes that of Stalin’s era, with arbitrary arrests and constant uncertainty. The regime seeks to sow fear and desperation among the people through violence and Russification”.

📌 “Underground resistance and information warfare. Despite harsh repression, there is active underground resistance – including cyber activists and grassroots intelligence. Russian propaganda actively works to disorient people and create noise to confuse them”.

📌 “Lack of popular support for the authorities. Most Belarusians hate Lukashenka and are tired of his rule. His support is maintained by security and special services and pro-Russian bureaucrats”.

📌 “Political preferences. Surveys show that Lukashenka’s support is around 20%, while the majority of the population supports Belarus’ independence and improving relations with the EU. The vast majority oppose participation in the war and the stationing of nuclear weapons”.

Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya also outlined practical steps through which the European community can help Belarus:

✔️ Support for independent media and civil society;
✔️ Synchronization of pressure on the regime;
✔️ Visa support and integration;
✔️ Support for a European perspective for Belarus;
✔️ Cooperation with democratic forces;
✔️ Accountability for the regime through universal jurisdiction.

Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya’s statement on release of Yaraslau Novikau in Armenia: “I hope this case will set a positive precedent”

May 10, 2024

In early 2024, Yaroslav Novikau was detained while crossing the border between Georgia and Armenia. The regime had initiated a criminal case against the young man, accusing him of evading military service, and requested an interstate search within the CIS. Yaraslau, who had left the country due to the threat of mobilization, was placed in jail in Armenia to wait for a decision on his extradition. At the same time, lawyers from the Helsinki Association and representatives of democratic forces began advocating for Novikau’s release.

Today, the Armenian side announced that Yaraslau has been granted refugee status and is no longer subject to extradition. He will be released shortly.

Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya: “Let me congratulate Yaraslau and his family on this news. I want to thank the Armenian authorities for this decision and their open approach to communication. Both representatives of democratic forces and human rights defenders have been raising Yaraslau’s case because defending Belarusians and ensuring their safety are our priorities.

I hope this case will set a positive precedent and help us further address security issues faced by Belarusians”.

How can democratic Belarus contribute to Europe’s security?

May 10, 2024

After the start of Russia’s full-scale war against Ukraine, the regime’s rhetoric has become more aggressive, including towards neighboring countries. We explain below why supporting democratic Belarus is not just a humanitarian but also a strategic necessity for Europe’s security.

ANTI-WAR SENTIMENT IN BELARUS PREVENTS NEW WARS

The sentiment of the absolute majority of society is a key factor preventing the Belarusian army from becoming a full participant in Russia’s aggression. The Second World War, which ravaged Belarus, touched every family, claiming the lives of people’s loved ones and destroying livelihoods and property.

Essentially, the war became a tragic part of history for each of us. For Belarusians, there is no narrative of “We Can Do It Again”. There is only “Never Again”.

LUKASHENKA IS WILLING TO GIVE PUTIN BELARUS’ TERRITORY FOR A REPEAT ATTACK ON UKRAINE OR EU COUNTRIES

If Putin wants it, there is no doubt it will happen. In 2020, Lukashenka claimed that attacks on Ukraine would never occur from Belarusian territory. Some believed this but now it’s obvious that none of his promises can be taken seriously. After Belarus became a launchpad in Russia’s attack on Ukraine, “security guarantees” are no longer possible. You cannot negotiate with dictators, let alone rely on their promises.

SUPPORT FOR DEMOCRATIC BELARUS IS NOT A HUMANITARIAN ACTION BUT AN INVESTMENT IN THE SECURITY OF THE ENTIRE REGION

As long as Belarus is controlled by the regime, it remains a puppet in the hands of the Kremlin. Democratic changes in the country will allow Belarus to stop being a threat to its neighbors and become a responsible partner for Europe and a regional security donor.

LUKASHENKA IS UNABLE TO RESIST PUTIN’S PRESSURE TO PARTICIPATE IN THE WAR

Lukashenka’s resistance to Putin is a false propaganda narrative. Lukashenka is doing exactly what Putin demands. He has provided Belarusian railways and airports as infrastructure for military operations, hospitals for treating wounded Russian soldiers, and training grounds for mobilized troops.

In addition, the regime has allowed the Kremlin to use Belarus’ territory for its attack on Ukraine, supplied ammunition to Russia, and offered to host the Wagner PMC in the summer of 2023.

BELARUS’ FUTURE IS COOPERATION WITH NEIGHBORS, NOT WAR

The future that Belarusians want for themselves and their children is peace, not war. Partnership and peaceful coexistence with all neighbors, including Western countries, are important priorities for democratic Belarus. We have nothing to fight for with our neighbors.

RUSSIAN NUCLEAR WEAPONS STATIONED IN BELARUS ARE A THREAT TO BELARUSIANS

Decisions on the use of nuclear weapons are made in the Kremlin. If Putin decides to attack Ukraine or any other country, Belarus’ territory will face retaliation strikes.

The Kremlin uses Belarusians as a human shield. This turns Belarus into a target. At the very least, for this reason alone, nuclear weapons must be returned to Russia.

Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya met for first time with NATO Secretary General

May 07, 2024

The Head of the United Transitional Cabinet, Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, had her first meeting with NATO officials.

Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya met with the NATO Secretary General, Jens Stoltenberg, with her Deputy at the Cabinet, Valery Kavaleuski also participating. Additionally, within the framework of the North Atlantic Council, Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya held a briefing for the permanent representatives of all NATO member countries to exchange views on the crisis in Belarus and the prospects for dialogue on the political agenda between Belarus’ democratic movement and NATO.

Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya: “I am glad that this meeting took place, commencing dialogue with the democratic forces of Belarus. Belarusians share the values enshrined in the alliance: individual freedom, human rights, democracy, and the rule of law.

I believe that every European country must build respectful and constructive relations with NATO. This is important for both national interests and regional security. I would like Belarus to be perceived as a reliable and peaceful partner”.

Valery Kavaleuski: “The start of a dialogue with NATO is the result of the United Transitional Cabinet’s work to expand cooperation with international organizations. For 75 years, NATO has been vital for Europe’s security and stability. We must inform the international community about the challenges facing our country”.

Letter of Intent on Cooperation between the European Parliament and the Belarusian Democratic Forces

May 03, 2024

The European Parliament and the Belarusian Democratic Forces (the Parties),

determined to enhance relations between the European Parliament and the democratic forces and civil society of Belarus, pursuant to the European Parliament resolution of 13 September 2023 on relations with Belarus[1],

condemning the unprecedented repression and the systemic and widespread human rights violations conducted by the Lukashenka regime, which may amount to crimes against humanity, and standing in solidarity with the people, democratic movement and civil society of Belarus in their struggle for a free, sovereign and democratic Belarus,

recognising the courageous fight of the Belarusian people to establish democracy, preserve independence and defend national identity in light of the Lukashenka regime’s dangerous undermining of the sovereignty of Belarus by turning it into a satellite state of Russia,

warmly acknowledging and supporting the public declarations made by the leader of the Belarusian democratic movement, Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, by the Coordination Council, by the United Transitional Cabinet of Belarus and by Belarusian political parties about the European aspirations of Belarusians,

welcoming the opening of the Mission of Democratic Belarus in Brussels and the establishment of the United Transitional Cabinet of Belarus, which, together with the Coordination Council, should be treated by the international community as the representatives of the people of Belarus,

hereby agree on the following common objectives and directions of cooperation:

The European Parliament shall endeavour to continue monitoring the internal situation in Belarus, in particular human rights violations, the situation of political prisoners and other people persecuted on politically motivated grounds, of journalists, of human rights defenders, of trade union activists, of minorities and of non-governmental organisations, the regime’s attempts to legitimise itself, including through sham elections, the regime’s involvement in Russia’s unjustified war of aggression and war crimes against Ukraine, the threats posed by the Lukashenka regime to the EU and the measures taken by the regime to undermine the rights and freedoms of Belarusians abroad. To this end, the Parties shall conduct regular dialogue with the aim of developing the conditions for democratic transition in Belarus.
The Parties shall each endeavour to continue to offer recommendations to the EU institutions and Member States on measures to increase pressure on the regime and support the efforts of the Belarusian democratic movement to thwart the threats to Belarus’s sovereignty, independence, national culture and language emanating from the deliberate actions of the Russian Federation and the rampant political, economic, military and cultural subordination of Belarus. The Parties shall endeavour to support the alleviation of migration challenges for those Belarusians who have been forced to flee Belarus for political reasons.
The Parties shall endeavour to continue demanding the accountability, under existing international mechanisms, of the regime’s representatives and of the individuals responsible for grave human rights violations and crimes against humanity in Belarus and for complicity in war crimes and the crime of aggression against Ukraine.
The Parties shall endeavour to encourage additional measures by the EU institutions and Member States to provide adequate help to Belarusian democratic forces and civil society activists, human rights defenders, independent media, and trade unions in order to bring democratic change in Belarus. This help shall be provided through, inter alia, the EU4Belarus programme and through capacity-building, training and mentoring initiatives and educational opportunities.
The European Parliament’s Democracy Support and Election Coordination Group shall endeavour to continue offering tailored support to Belarusian democratic forces and civil society, using its actions and programmes. It shall help to enhance the capacity and technical expertise of the Coordination Council and of the United Transitional Cabinet with a view to fostering a democratic transition in the country and upholding Belarus’s independence and sovereignty. It shall also assist with strategic communication, offer support to human rights defenders and independent journalists and continue efforts to secure the release of political prisoners in Belarus.
This agreement is without prejudice to the European Parliament’s continuing cooperation with all elements of the democratic forces of Belarus.

Done in Brussels, on May 3, in English and Belarusian, with both texts being equally authentic.

[1] OJ C, C/2024/1761, 22.3.2024, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/C/2024/1761/oj.

“We do not need special occasions to talk about political prisoners”

May 02, 2024

Many political prisoners in Belarus are deprived of letters, phone calls, and meetings. They are isolated from their families and lawyers and denied the medical assistance they need. Incommunicado detention deprives them of any communication with the outside world as the regime tries to make political prisoners believe that no one supports them.

Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya: “We do not need special occasions to remember how important it is to support our political prisoners. It’s been 443 days since we’ve heard from Maryia Kalesnikava. It’s been 449 days for Maksim Znak. 448 days for Mikalai Statkevich. 452 days for Viktar Babaryka. 438 days for Ihar Losik. For 421 days, I’ve had no information about the fate of my husband, Siarhei.

In every visit, I repeat: people are dying in Belarusian prisons. Political prisoners are held incommunicado and in terrible conditions. I urge international organizations and diplomats to push for access to prisons and demand the immediate release of all political prisoners. In a situation where they are being tortured and denied any assistance, this is rather a humanitarian than a political issue.

Dear friends, please, speak out loudly about our political prisoners. Support them and their families with letters, parcels, and donations if it is safe for you. Help can’t be small. Everything we do contributes to a great cause”.

International humanitarian fund to support political prisoners and their families from Belarus was established in Norway

Apr 30, 2024

An international humanitarian fund to support Belarusian political prisoners and their families has been established in Norway at the initiative of Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya. Support will include medical, material, and psychological assistance, as well as rehabilitation for individuals who have suffered political repression from the regime.

During her working visit to Oslo, the Belarusian leader met with Prime Minister, Jonas Gahr Støre, who confirmed that Norway will allocate 10 million Norwegian kroner as the first contribution to the fund. Belarusian organizations and initiatives that assist political prisoners and their families will administer it.

The Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs is currently working on formalizing the fund’s operations. Minister of Foreign Affairs, Espen Barts Eide, supported this initiative and emphasized, “The situation with political prisoners in Belarus is very alarming. Such assistance is much needed for the rehabilitation of former political prisoners and their families”.

Further contributions to the fund can be made by both foreign governments and international organizations, as well as other donors.

Norwegian Helsinki Committee initiated letter in defense of freedom of religion and beliefs in Belarus

Apr 29, 2024

On April 29, when Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya visited the Norwegian Helsinki Committee in Oslo, the International Panel of Parliamentarians for Freedom of Religion or Belief, operating under the auspices of the committee, initiated a letter to be signed by parliamentarians from different countries. It responds to the new law adopted in Belarus, “Amending Laws on the Activities of Religious Organizations”.

The letter highlights several repressive provisions of Belarus’ legislation on religious freedom, which violate human rights standards and contradict Belarus’s international commitments in this area. Parliamentarians call on the Belarusian authorities to “bring Belarusian laws and policies into line with its freely undertaken international commitments” and “take concrete action to provide freedom of religion or belief to all in Belarus”. After signing, the letter will be sent to the Belarusian authorities and Norwegian embassies in various countries.

The International Panel of Parliamentarians for Freedom of Religion or Belief (IPPFoRB) includes over 350 current and former parliamentarians and legislators from more than 97 countries worldwide.

Various organizations and institutions have drawn attention to the repressiveness of Belarusian legislation on religious freedom. For example, in February 2024, Christian Vision submitted input for the 2024 report of the Special Rapporteur on Belarus to the UN Human Rights Council, which is focused on freedom of association. Also, in August 2023, UN Special Rapporteurs on the situation of human rights in Belarus addressed the Belarusian authorities regarding the proposed amendments to legislation on religion. The rapporteurs sent a joint letter on the issue of the rights to freedom of peaceful assembly and association, as well as freedom of religion or belief.

Marharyta Vorykhava became Vice-Chair of Bureau of Advisory Council on Youth of Council of Europe

Apr 29, 2024

Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya’s Advisor on Youth Policy and Students, Marharyta Vorykhava, participated in the meeting of the Advisory Council on Youth of the Council of Europe in Budapest. During the event, Ms. Vorykhava was elected as the Vice-Chair of the Bureau, which is the governing body of the Council of Europe’s Advisory Council on Youth. The advisor explains the benefits of this for Belarusians.

⚪️ Why is this important?

“We know that our country needs the support of international partners. But Belarusians also have expertise, not only about Belarus but also internationally. In this position, we can both influence the assistance provided to Belarus and demonstrate that we have something to offer in return”.

🔴 Is Belarus included in the work plans?

“Essentially, the bureau works on drafting recommendations and resolutions, directing the work of the Council of Europe in the youth sector and other areas that affect it, like environment, artificial intelligence, education, and mobility. This decision will help us make sure that Belarus and the position of Belarusian youth are mentioned in all the documents sent for approval”.

⚪️ Does the Council of Europe’s Contact Group on Belarus work with youth?

“During the meeting with the head of the Youth Department, Tobias Flessenkemper, we discussed the importance of the work of the contact group and comprehensive support for Belarus. The Council of Europe intends to work in this direction and provide more sustainable and long-term support. There already is a plan in place for Belarus, with a significant portion of it focusing specifically on youth”.

Independent Belarus as a guarantee of security in Europe

Apr 22, 2024

In 1991, following the collapse of the Soviet Union, several nation states emerged and gained independence. How did Europe respond to this?

For some reason, Western politicians regarded Belarus, Ukraine, Moldova, and Georgia as falling within Russia's sphere of interest. Decades later, it is evident that this decision was a strategic mistake.

In 2014, nobody could have anticipated that Belarus would play a significant role in Russia's aggression against Ukraine in 2022. All of this stems from strategic mistakes made in 1991 and 2014. Granting territorial concessions to the aggressor and attempting appeasement have consistently resulted in negative consequences. Even the Lukashenko regime, which has consistently supported Russia, reached the same conclusions after 2014. The dictator was not concerned about the country or the state, but rather his own power.

Then, between 2014 and 2015, Lukashenko managed to convince Western partners of a favorable narrative: that only he could save Belarus from Putin and guarantee its independence. Lukashenko manipulated the West, fully aware that he had no intention of implementing reforms or relinquishing power. His inclination towards the West was merely an excuse to extract more resources from both the EU and Russia.

We frequently emphasize to our partners that it is only a matter of time before Russia non-militarily annexes Belarus. Lukashenko will be unable to prevent this, but the worst-case scenario is if the Belarusian people are also unable to prevent it.

Our Western partners have a choice:

Support Lukashenko, believing that he will protect Belarus.
Support Belarusian society and assist the Belarusian people in reclaiming their agency.

Only a free, independent, European, and democratic Belarus can guarantee that Russia will no longer be able to carry out aggression, not only against Ukraine but also against the EU.

As a politician, I wholeheartedly endorse all actions taken by our partners to strengthen national security and defense. However, it is crucial for our Western partners to understand that the Belarusian people are the primary force and the main weapon.

In a situation where the Putin and Lukashenko regime decides to once again employ Belarus as a base for aggression against Ukraine or any EU member states, the Belarusian people, who endure daily repression, will be our foremost weapon.

Pavel Latushka: Deputy Head of the United Transitional Cabinet of Belarus, Head of the National Anti-Crisis Management, Ambassador

Source: NAM

Criminal cases against Lukashenko in Poland

Apr 20, 2024

Pavel Latushka: Will Lukashenko come to Poland?

Currently, the National Prosecutor's Office of Poland is conducting criminal proceedings against Alexander Lukashenko and officials under his command for crimes committed against national and political groups, as well as other individuals.

The National Anti-Crisis Management (NAM) is actively working to thoroughly investigate the crimes committed by Lukashenko and his accomplices against Belarusian and foreign citizens. We are providing relevant materials to the Prosecutor's Office of Poland, the International Criminal Court in The Hague, and the Prosecutor General's Office of Ukraine.

In line with the agreements reached in November 2023, Marcin Wiącek, the Commissioner for Civil Rights of Poland, has updated Pavel Latushka, the head of the National Anti-Crisis Management (NAM), on the progress in reviewing the applications submitted by Belarusians regarding the crimes committed against them.

In his letter to the NAM, the Ombudsman of Poland mentioned that the Department for Combating Organized Crime and Corruption of the National Prosecutor's Office of Poland in Lublin is currently examining the following cases:

The crimes against humanity committed by Alexander Lukashenko and other identified officials of the Republic of Belarus, against both Belarusian and foreign citizens, including multiple instances of murder, serious manslaughter, infliction of serious bodily and mental harm, and the deliberate creation of living conditions with the aim of physically destroying, either completely or partially, a national or political group. These acts were carried out by an organized armed criminal group, which included Alexander Lukashenko and other named officials, as part of a state policy that constitutes political terrorism supported by state terrorism.
The hijacking of a Polish aircraft, involving the illegal act of forcing Ryanair flight FR4978 to land on June 21, 2021, at Minsk airport in the Republic of Belarus. This action, carried out by officers of the Belarusian KGB following the orders of Alexander Lukashenko and other individuals, posed a direct threat to the lives and health of many people, causing harm to both private interests and the interests of the Republic of Poland.

The trafficking of persons, exploiting citizens of Iraq and other nationalities, involving the recruitment, transportation, delivery, transfer, harboring, or reception of individuals from outside the territory of Belarus for a fee, with the purpose of forcing them to illegally cross the border of Belarus with European Union countries (Latvia, Lithuania, and Poland). This was committed by Alexander Lukashenko as the leading executive using the state administration subordinate to him, along with Belarusian travel agencies acting on behalf of the state administration.

Instances of violence and threats against groups and individuals based on their national and political affiliation, particularly those associated with the democratic white-red-white national symbols of Belarus. These acts, carried out by Alexander Lukashenko and other identified officials, involved the use of illegal and punitive threats through media information, internet portals, and messengers, indicating the potential commission of crimes against the health and lives of threatened individuals and their families.

A joint investigation team, consisting of Poland, Lithuania, and Germany, has been established to investigate these crimes. The investigation is being conducted based on a decision by the Deputy Prosecutor General of Poland for Organized Crime and Corruption.

Marcin Wiącek assured Pavel Latushka that he will continue to monitor the progress of the investigation to ensure the respect for rights and civil liberties.

Pavel Latushka, head of the National Anti-Crisis Management, commented on the prospects of legal prosecution, stating, "The continued work of the Polish prosecutor's office on the possible involvement of Lukashenko and his accomplices in committing crimes against citizens of Belarus and other countries is crucial to achieving justice for the grave and especially grave crimes committed by the regime in Belarus. We have provided evidence and given testimony in all of the aforementioned cases. We will continue to take all possible actions to ensure the legal prosecution of Lukashenko, including through five international mechanisms such as transferring the situation in Belarus to the ICC for consideration of crimes against humanity, as well as for the war crime of illegally transferring Ukrainian children from the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine to Belarus, committed by Alexander Lukashenko and his accomplices. I believe that Lukashenko can only come to Poland in handcuffs."

Source: NAM

Over past 4 years, regime in Belarus destroyed more than 1600 non-profit organizations

Apr 19, 2024

Two years ago, the regime cracked down on activists from independent trade unions. Nearly twenty people remain imprisoned on trumped-up charges. The regime ruthlessly targeted its opponents, yet again demonstrating that it would rather silence the voices of Belarusians than listen to them.

Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya: “Two years ago, the regime ruthlessly targeted activists from independent trade unions. Nearly two dozen people, including Aliaksandr Yarashuk and Siarhei Antusevich, were detained on trumped-up charges and thrown behind bars. Thus, Lukashenka not only disposed of dissenting leaders but effectively destroyed the movement itself. Over the past 4 years, the regime in Belarus has destroyed more than 1600 non-profit organizations that worked across various fields – sports, culture, and education, among others. However, care for the people is the regime’s last concern. Because its representatives would rather stifle voices of criticism than listen to fair remarks, making people’s lives a bit more comfortable or simpler.

State propaganda likes to call Belarus’ policies socially oriented. But the rights to work and social protection are no longer a thing there. They are replaced by obligations to pay trade union dues and attend propaganda meetings, where all the problems of Belarusians are blamed on the West and America. People expressing outrage and pointing out that a socially oriented government should care about the health of workers or cover expenses for the treatment and rest of children can end up receiving a prison sentence. For what? For inciting social hatred, as in the case of trade union activists Vatslau Areshka and Vasil Berasneu, who were sentenced to almost ten years in prison each. Although if there was any hatred in their words, it was only towards the government’s lack of care for the people…

Today, the regime claims to have revived the trade union movement. But instead of trade unions, workers’ rights are now “defended” by ideologists – and all they “do” is organize unpaid clean-up events and film pro-government videos.

But trade unions are not about forcing workers to participate in events to demonstrate public interest. They are about defending rights and freedoms. About giving people the opportunity to stand up for themselves and demand decent wages and respectful treatment in any situation. About compliance with modern labor standards. I am confident that Belarusians are well aware of this and know what they want – for their opinions to be heard. For their interests to be protected – not the interests of the people willing to exploit others, intimidating them with violence and prison terms”.

Blinken, Baerbock, Cameron, Séjourné. Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya on results of dialogue with G7 leaders

Apr 18, 2024

This year’s G7 ministers’ meeting was the first to have Belarus and its interests represented. Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya drew the attention of world leaders such as Antony Blinken, Annalena Baerbock, David Cameron, Stéphane Séjourné, Mélanie Joly, Josep Borrell, and Antonio Tajani to the humanitarian crisis in Belarus and its creeping occupation by Russia. The leader also called on the participants to find ways to achieve the release of political prisoners and provide rehabilitation.

After the event, the Belarusian leader recorded an exclusive video address. In it, she shares the results of the G7 event.

Here are some highlights of the address:

📌 “During the meetings, I called on the ministers to continue supporting our civil society and media and spoke about political prisoners. I stressed that our people are dying in prisons. We talked about holding the regime accountable – not only for the war against Ukraine but also for repression against Belarusians”.

📌 “An important decision might be made about assistance to Ukraine in the coming days – and I hope it will be adopted. Because the fates of our countries are intertwined”.

📌 “I am grateful to all Belarusians who continue to fight for change in our country. Be sure that the free world supports us. And I will do everything I can to keep the issue of Belarus on the international agenda”.

The full address in Belarusian is available below.

https://youtu.be/LrWloBYweCA

The Belarusian Embassy in Brussels opened under a white-red-white flag

Apr 18, 2024

Uladzimir Astapenka, Deputy Head of NAM, recounted the establishment of the Belarusian Embassy in Belgium in 1995.

During that time, in March 1995, Lukashenko himself attended the opening, marking his first and only official visit to Brussels. He engaged in meetings with Belgian leadership and the European Union, signing a partnership and cooperation agreement. However, this agreement never came into effect as its ratification was halted after the unconstitutional referendum of 1996.

Prior to the opening, an ambassador was appointed to Brussels, commencing their work essentially from scratch. Initially, they rented an apartment in a high-rise building, where their efforts began. Later, a separate house was found, which was eventually purchased and renovated to suit the needs of the embassy. As Minister-Counselor of the Belarusian Embassy in Belgium, I actively participated in the process. For the embassy's inauguration, they commissioned a large edition of a splendid postcard, featuring an artist's impressionist depiction of the embassy building with our national flag proudly displayed. And I still have a picture before my eyes - an old building with a white-red-white flag.

After the infamous 1995 referendum, where Lukashenko changed our national symbols to the red and green palette of the BSSR era, instructions were issued to replace the flags. However, the embassy hesitated to immediately remove the white-red-white flag, which continued to adorn the building for a significant period.

Today, in Brussels, there is a representation of the Belarusian society - of the majority, who took to the streets in 2020 under thousands of white-red-white flags to protest against dictatorship and violence. Our national flag proudly flies at the Mission of Democratic Belarus in Brussels.

This institution's vital work serves as a crucial stepping stone towards the day when national flags will flutter over Belarusian embassies worldwide, unyieldingly standing as a symbol that cannot be taken down.

Source: NAM

Council of Europe Information Point for Belarus in Vilnius: Why is it important?

Apr 17, 2024

Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya’s Senior Political Advisor, Alexander Dabravolski, and Advisor on Youth Policy and Students, Marharyta Vorykhava, met with the Director of Political Affairs and External Relations of the Council of Europe, Miroslav Papa.

The meeting was held on the occasion of the launch of the Information Point on the Council of Europe for Belarus in Vilnius. Such information points raise awareness about the CoE activities, including about conventions signed by member states that serve as guidelines for many countries’ policies. Essentially, belonging to the Council of Europe means belonging to the family of civilized states and is an important step towards Belarus’ European future.

A similar institution previously existed in Minsk at the Belarusian State University, though most people could not access it because of the university’s security arrangements. Its activities were limited due to the lack of interest from the Belarusian authorities in expanding cooperation with the Council of Europe.

Therefore, the information point in Vilnius will focus on reaching out to ordinary people. This will help Belarusians understand how such large structures actually work. This initiative will serve as an example of an organization that is open, honest, and accountable.

Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya’s Senior Political Advisor, Alexander Dabravolski, notes that this is the first and clear step towards promoting the European perspective for Belarus:

“Information centers, besides raising awareness, participate in Council of Europe campaigns and organize events for experts, politicians, and civil society. The launch of this point in Vilnius will be a very important step to set our country on the path towards the community of civilized states”.

Canadian authorities and Belarus’ democratic forces initiated joint strategic consultations

Apr 16, 2024

During her trip to Canada, Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya held a series of meetings with key politicians of the country, including Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Foreign Minister Melanie Joly, as well as the speakers of both chambers of Parliament and opposition leaders.

As a result of the meetings, the following agreements were achieved:

⚪️ Launch of strategic bilateral consultations with the democratic forces of Belarus, similar to the Belarus–USA Strategic Dialogue and focusing on the following main areas:

📌 pressure on the regime;

📌 defending human rights;

📌 media;

📌 countering disinformation.

Cooperation is also possible in the fifth area – covering culture, national identity, and the diaspora.

🔴 New restrictions against the Lukashenka regime. The list includes individuals associated with crimes and repression against Belarusians and will be regularly updated.

⚪️ Allocation of 1 million Canadian dollars to support independent Belarusian media, as well as projects to counter propaganda and disinformation.

Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya: “I am truly grateful to Canada for its solidarity with Belarus and the democratic forces. Our cooperation sends a signal to all Belarusians that we are not alone on our path to change and can count on the diverse support of our partners”.

Sports of the Lukashenko Regime at the Paris Olympic Games

Apr 16, 2024

It is crucial to address the issue of double discrimination against Belarusian independent athletes, according to the stance of the National Anti-Crisis Management regarding the participation of Belarusians in the upcoming Olympic Games in Paris.

Presently, Belarusian free athletes face dual discrimination due to inconsistent policies within the international sports community. On one hand, they are discriminated against by the Lukashenko regime for their opposition to violence and war, resulting in their exclusion from national teams, terminations, blacklisting, detentions, or even being compelled to leave Belarus. On the other hand, Belarusian independent athletes are excluded from international sports by the federations themselves due to the aggression launched by Russia against Ukraine with the support of the Lukashenko regime.

Since 2020, the Lukashenko regime has carried out unprecedented repression against athletes. Over 136 Belarusian sports representatives have been unlawfully targeted for their civic activities, leading to terminations, detentions, and blacklisting. Currently, more than 20 Belarusian athletes and sports professionals are officially recognized as political prisoners. SOS.BY has been labeled as an extremist organization by the Belarusian KGB. Athletes who have spoken out against the war have been subjected to a separate wave of repression.

On December 8, 2023, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) decided to allow athletes with Russian and Belarusian passports to participate in the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris under strict conditions. One of the conditions introduced is that athletes and service personnel with contracts with the Russian or Belarusian military or law enforcement agencies will not be granted participation in the competitions.

However, the IOC's position was only advisory for international federations. As a result, the specialized federations have the final say on admitting Belarusian athletes to the qualifying competitions. Due to the varying approaches taken by international federations, Belarusian sports find themselves in a situation where independent athletes have been excluded from participating in competitions, while athletes affiliated with the Lukashenko regime have been admitted to the 2024 Olympic Games.

The NAM team has prepared justifications and submitted requests to the IOC and relevant international federations to conduct thorough verification of at least four athletes from the Lukashenko regime who have qualified for the Olympic Games and are associated with military and security forces. We have been in contact with representatives from the International Athletics Federation, the International Swimming Federation, the International Federation of Greco-Roman Wrestling, Freestyle Wrestling, and Women's Wrestling, as well as the national federations of Poland for tennis, football, athletics, and judo. We have also engaged with the Ministries of Foreign Affairs and Sports of Poland, Lithuania, Latvia, Germany, France, the United States, and Norway. Additionally, specific efforts are being made within the framework of the Commission of the Ministry of Sports of Poland regarding the admission of athletes with Belarusian and Russian passports.

The National Anti-Crisis Management will continue to collaborate with partner countries, federations, and the IOC to bring about change regarding Belarusian athletes. We express our gratitude to the athletes who contribute to our efforts and provide information for subsequent verification, as well as those who assist in addressing the issue of double discrimination against Belarusian athletes. We extend special thanks to the journalists, including the editorial team of Tribuna, for providing documents that confirm the athletes' affiliation with the military and security forces of the Lukashenko regime.

Photo: tribuna.com

Source: NAM

Situation in Belarus and region, regime accountability, support for Belarusian diaspora: What Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya discussed during meetings with key politicians of Greece?

Apr 12, 2024

On April 11-12, Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya was in Greece on a working visit, where she participated in the Delphi Economic Forum and held a series of meetings with key politicians of the country.

With the President of Greece, Katerina Sakellaropoulou, the Belarusian leader discussed the current situation in Belarus and the region – and stressed the importance of holding the regime accountable, in particular for the hijacking of the Ryanair plane, the forced displacement of Ukrainian children from occupied territories, and crimes against humanity. The parties also talked about the legalization of stay problems faced by Belarusians in Greece and rehabilitation programs for children of repressed Belarusians.

With the Mayor of Athens, Haris Doukas, Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya talked about supporting the Belarusian diaspora activities in the city and cultural diplomacy initiatives like residences for Belarusian artists and internships for the Personnel Reserve, helping honest Belarusian businesses, as well as organizing exhibitions and Belarusian-Greek events.

With former Prime Minister of Greece, George Papandreou, Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya visited a number of historical sites in Athens, where Mr. Papandreou spoke about the traditions of Greek parliamentarism. It is worth noting that Mr. Papandreou’s great-grandfather, Zygmunt Mineyko, was born in Belarus and actively participated in the Kastus Kalinouski Uprising. The Belarusian leader brought archival materials about this remarkable person, including information about his line of descent, photographs of ancestors, as well as documents about the property and lands of the Mineykos in Belarus.

At the end of the meeting, Ms. Tsikhanouskaya invited Mr. Papandreou to Vilnius to visit the graves of his relatives and presented him with a book of memoirs “Z Taihi pad Akropole” (“From the Taiga to the Acropolis”) in the Belarusian language.

Aliaksandr Kulinich, accused of insulting Lukashenka, died in the Brest pre-trial detention center

Apr 11, 2024

On April 9, 2024, Aliaksandr Kulinich died in the Brest pre-trial detention center, Lusterka reports. He was accused under Article 368 of the Criminal Code (insulting Lukashenka). The man was detained on February 29 in Brest, since then he had been in custody. His trial was scheduled to take place on April 16.

According to the sources of the publication, Aliaksandr Kulinich died due to coronary heart disease: this reason is indicated in the death certificate. 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. The circumstances of Aliaksandr Kulinich's detention are unknown.

According to Lusterka, Aliaksandr Kulinich was born in Maladzečna on April 11, 1972 (he would have turned 52 years old). He was a lieutenant colonel in the reserve and served in the 38th Separate Guards Airborne Assault Brigade of the Brest Airborne Forces. Recently, he worked as an individual entrepreneur, engaged in food supplements.

“For years, the Belarus regime was using Cyprus for the evasion of sanctions”

Apr 10, 2024

Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya gave speech in the Parliment of Cyprus:

“Dear members of the Standing Committee on Foreign and European Affairs

Dear excellencies, dear friends of freedom

It is an honor and privilege to address you today. And I know that I am among friends.

It’s my second day here, in Cyprus, but I already feel how close our nations are. Belarusians, much like Cypriots, deeply understand the true value of freedom.

We have many things to learn about each other. And I think my visit here to Cyprus will help to develop the relationship between Belarusians and Cypriots.

Exactly on this day, 32 years ago, Belarus and Cyprus established a diplomatic relationship. It was two years after the collapse of the Soviet Union, when Belarus experienced democracy, similar to what Cyprus enjoys now. However, 2 years later, the power in my country was seized by a dictator.

In 2020, Belarusians rose up against tyranny, against injustice, and violence.

I am sure you all remember massive rallies all over the country. Belarusians clearly showed that we see our country as free, democratic, and European, not some pariah or Russian province.

As you know, I was not a professional politician. I ran for president because I wanted to support my husband, who was imprisoned by Lukashenka’s regime.

My only promise was to conduct free and fair elections. And we have evidence that I won that election. However, our victory was stolen. The dictator unleashed the brutal terror that continues to this day. He dragged our country into the criminal war against Ukraine and holds nine million Belarusians as hostages.

Despite that, we continue to resist. Belarusians demonstrate defiance, conduct acts of sabotage, and will never agree to live under tyranny or Russian Yoke.

In exile, we have formed alternative institutions of power, such as the United Transitional Cabinet and Coordination Council. We continue to represent and defend the interests of the Belarusian people. Because Lukashenka is not the president. He is a criminal who seized power and served his patron in Moscow, not the Belarusian people.

And he must be brought to account for all the crimes he committed. And his record is long: crimes against humanity, treason against the state, hijacking of the Ryanair flight, deportation of Ukrainian children, and complicity in the war.

Our mission, the mission of Belarusian democratic forces, remains the same. Our aim is to liberate Belarus from the grip of dictatorship and Russian claws. Lukashenka’s regime must be dismantled. Every political prisoner must be released. Perpetrators must be punished. We need free and fair elections under international supervision.

The regime of Lukashenka is much more vulnerable than it seems. It is like a chair on three legs: money, repression, and Russia. If one leg falls, the whole chair collapses.

Unfortunately, the situation in Belarus didn’t improve. Political parties, media, and civil society initiatives have been destroyed. Hundreds of thousands had to flee the country because of repressions. This is how Lukashenka takes revenge on people who dared to dream about freedom.

Thousands are still held as political prisoners under the most inhumane conditions. One of them is my husband. My children have not seen their daddy for four years already. For one year, he is held incommunicado, and I don’t know if he is alive.

Despite the terror, Belarusians continue to resist. You can’t see big rallies anymore, but the protest went underground. We see the small acts of sabotage, of resistance. And most important – people did not give up.

After the regime dragged our country into the criminal war against Ukraine, it became evident that Lukashenka doesn’t represent Belarus anymore. He is selling our country to Putin, piece by piece, in exchange for political support.

Therefore, it’s so crucial right now to isolate the regime, politically, economically through sanctions – through all available means. However, while isolating the regime we should not isolate the people.

We should distinguish the regime from the people: it’s the regime who became Putin’s accomplice. Meanwhile, Belarusian people are fighting for democracy and freedom, and supporting Ukraine.

For us, the victory of Ukraine will be also our victory. But also vice versa, changes in Belarus can help Ukraine to win faster. Our fates are interconnected.

Dear friends,

I want to thank the Cypriot Parliament and your committee for your strong voice in support of freedom and democracy. I want to ask you to be vocal on Belarus situation, support our democratic aspirations, isolate Belarus regime as it violates international law and human rights.

You can make statements, resolutions on Belarus. Every action matters. I ask you to pay particular attention to the situation with human rights abuses, political prisoners, involvement of Lukashenka’s regime in the war, and deployment of nuclear weapons on our territory.

I want to thank you for your strong position on sanctions, and your efforts to counter those who attempt to evade sanctions. For years, the Belarus regime was using Cyprus for the evasion of sanctions. Right now, more than 500 companies in Belarus have Cypriot capital. Many of these companies are related to the regime, support the war and repressions. We rely on your help to identify and sanction them.

I want to ask you to distinguish between Belarus regime and Belarusian people. Many Belarusian continue to fight for freedom both inside the country, and abroad. Belarusian people don’t support the war, and don’t support dictatorship.

I hope Cyprus will support Belarusians living here in Cyprus, it’s more than 5000 people. Yesterday, I met our diaspora in Limassol. They face many challenges. The regime deprived them of documents, passports. Many can’t return home because they will be immediately arrested. They become de facto stateless.

I hope Cyprus will find a solution for them, providing them with legalization, travel documents, residence permits, and allowing them to open bank accounts. We as democratic forces are ready to provide verification for people and companies residing in Cyprus.

I also encourage you to create the group for democratic Belarus in the Cypriot Parliament. It would be a strong message of solidarity and support, but also an important instrument to strengthen the cooperation between Cyprus and free Belarus. Such groups exist already in almost all EU parliaments.

I also ask you to join our campaign of godparenthood over political prisoners. More than 400 parliamentarians from different countries around the world, “adopted” our journalists, activists, and teachers behind bars. You can pick any political prisoners, and tell their stories – to people in Cyprus and around the world.

And finally, I invite you to pay a visit to Vilnius or Warsaw, to meet former political prisoners, journalists, activists, – to understand our situation, but also to highlight it in your media.

Dear friends,

Let me express my deepest gratitude for your time and attention. I know that changes in Belarus will need time. But with your help, I am sure, we will be able to succeed. And Belarus will find its rightful place in the European family, as a free and democratic nation.

Thank you”.

UN strengthened accountability mechanisms for human rights violations in Belarus

Apr 05, 2024

During its 55th session, the UN Human Rights Council adopted an important resolution aimed at strengthening accountability mechanisms for human rights violations in Belarus. The document establishes a special group consisting of three independent experts and extends the mandate of the special rapporteur on Belarus for one year. These measures are intended to investigate and document violations committed by the Lukashenka regime and develop recommendations to stop them.

The group will investigate serious and ongoing human rights violations, collect evidence of the regime’s crimes, and identify perpetrators based on independent investigations by the UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights.

The resolution is a response to the worsening human rights crisis in Belarus, where many remain behind bars on politically motivated charges, facing harsh treatment and being kept incommunicado. Last year, the Lukashenka regime formally deprived victims of human rights violations of the right to submit complaints to the UN Human Rights Committee.

Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya’s Advisor on Legal Affairs, Kristina Rikhter, emphasizes the importance of the document for holding the regime accountable:

“The resolution itself is not unique – similar decisions on Belarus have already been made by the UN Human Rights Council before. But in this case, we should emphasize the content. The special group established by the UN, in addition to collecting evidence, has been given a mandate to investigate. This is actually a much stronger mechanism that contributes to holding representatives of the regime accountable for their crimes.

I should stress that we have been both closely monitoring the situation and actively advocating for the decision together with other Belarusian human rights organizations. Therefore, we welcome the fact that our voice was heard by the majority of the UN Human Rights Council”.

Positive Experience of Obtaining a Passport of a foreigner in Slovenia

Mar 28, 2024

On March 27th, it was announced that a Belarusian family had obtained a foreign passport (Potni list za tujca) for their 9-year-old son. This is the first known case of a Belarusian obtaining a passport of a foreigner in Slovenia!

Following the adoption of Decree No. 278, which prohibits Belarusian embassies from issuing passports, the Belarusian People's Embassy in Slovenia prepared instructions (https://t.me/PEofBelarus/203) on obtaining a passport of a foreigner. The conditions for obtaining the document include having a residence permit and the inability to obtain a passport from one's own country.

"Knowing that our son's passport would expire in June 2024 and that traveling to Belarus is unsafe, we approached the Administrative Unit, which, is responsible for issuing passports. Initially, we faced difficulties due to the employee's lack of experience and we got directed us to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. We know that previously other Belarusians were denied support because their Belarusian passport had not yet expired. After appealing to the Slovenian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, we received information about the procedure for issuing a passport of a foreigner, and after reapplying, we received a passport valid for 2 years within a week," shared a Belarusian from Slovenia.

The Belarusian People's Embassy in Slovenia (https://slovenia.belarusabroad.org/) prepared requests to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Interior, and the Administration of Administrative Units asking for clarification of the procedure, particularly to make sure that a gap in document validity could be avoided as well as recognising the danger of returning to Belarus as a sufficient reason for the inability to obtain a passport in light of Decree No. 278.

"More than 400 Belarusians live in Slovenia. According to a survey among the Belarusian diaspora, at least 20 people will face the problem of expired Belarusian passports in the next two years. Currently, the issue of documents for children born in Slovenia is being resolved," commented Alexandra Mamaeva, a representative of the Belarusian People's Embassy in Slovenia.

We hope that the positive experience of obtaining a passport of a foreigner in Slovenia will become a positive precedent not only for the authorities of Slovenia but also for the leadership of other countries.

If you have any questions about obtaining a foreign passport in Slovenia - write to the inbox of the Belarusian People's Embassy in Slovenia at slovenia@belarusabroad.org or in our chat-bot (https://t.me/PEofBelarus_bot).

You can find information for other countries on the website pashpart.org

How can we bring Lukashenko's regime, as well as himself and his accomplices, to international responsibility?

Mar 27, 2024

Pavel Latushka, the head of the NAM and deputy head of the United Transitional Cabinet, delivered a lecture at the Faculty of International Law at the University of Bialystok, discussing the existing legal mechanisms for holding Lukashenko and his accomplices accountable for the international crimes they have committed. What are these mechanisms?

The first mechanism is the State referral of the „Belarus situation” to the Office of the Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court.

Some may argue that since Belarus is not a party to the Rome Statute, the ICC does not have jurisdiction over international crimes committed in our country. However, the jurisprudence and practice of the ICC suggests that the Court can potentially exercise at least jurisdiction over the crime against humanity of deportation, which refers to situations where the civilian population is forced to leave a country's territory due to an “atmosphere of fear and terror” created by the perpetrators.

Civilians who were compelled to flee Belarus to Poland after being persecuted on political grounds by the Lukashenko regime can be considered victims of deportation.

Since Poland is a state party to the ICC and deportation is a crime committed on the territory of at least two countries (Belarus and Poland), it is possible to establish the ICC's jurisdiction.

Poland has the right to refer the "situation in Belarus" to the ICC Prosecutor's Office for potential investigation.

The second mechanism is universal jurisdiction.

This principle allows states to investigate the most serious international crimes, even if they were committed on the territory of another country and neither the perpetrator nor the victim are nationals of the state initiating the criminal investigation.

Applications have already been submitted under this mechanism in Poland, Lithuania, the Czech Republic, Germany, and Switzerland.

The third mechanism is the referral of the dispute to the International Court of Justice.

Considering the widespread commission of acts constituting torture and other cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment or punishment, there are grounds to assert that Belarus has violated its obligations under the relevant international Convention against Torture of 1984, to which Belarus is a party.

Since the violated provisions of the Convention are obligations to the entire world community (erga omnes), virtually any state party to the Convention can file an application against Belarus to the International Court of Justice.

Furthermore, A. Lukashenko and his accomplices may be subject to criminal liability for war crimes.

With the onset of Russia's large-scale war against Ukraine, in which the Lukashenko regime is involved, the NAM has been documenting instances of the illegal displacement of children from Russian-occupied territories of Ukraine to Belarus. Such actions potentially constitute a war crime.

It is known that from September 2022 to May 2023, approximately 2,100 children aged 6 to 15 years, hailing from at least 15 occupied Ukrainian cities, were transported to the Belarusian Dubrava camp under the pretext of "rehabilitation."

In this regard, the NAM has prepared and submitted two Communications under Article 15 of the Rome Statute to the ICC Prosecutor's Office.

Source: NAM

Great News for Belarusians in Germany

Mar 27, 2024

Mikhail Taube, the representative of the Belarusian People's Embassy in Germany, is pleased to inform about significant changes in German legislation that will greatly ease the lives of Belarusians seeking German citizenship.

From June 26, 2024, changes to the German citizenship law come into force, bringing two key pieces of news for Belarusians:

The Possibility to Retain Belarusian Citizenship:

Now, Belarusians can apply for German citizenship without renouncing their Belarusian citizenship. This opens new opportunities, simplifying the integration process and offering the chance to acquire dual citizenship without the need to forsake their roots.

Elimination of the Need to Appeal to Lukashenko:

Another significant point is that Belarusians no longer need to request renunciation of Belarusian citizenship from Lukashenko's regime and the dictator personally. This removes a moral and psychological barrier for many who find it unacceptable to appeal to the current self-proclaimed president of Belarus.

More details on the changes in the German citizenship law can be found at this link.

Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya called on foreign diplomats to appoint special envoys for relations with democratic Belarus

Mar 26, 2024

At the Embassy of Lithuania in Prague, the leader of the United Transitional Cabinet, Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, met with ambassadors and diplomats from Argentina, Austria, Canada, Croatia, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Kosovo, Luxembourg, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, the United Kingdom, the United States, and Bulgaria. On the occasion of the meeting, the Lithuanian embassy displayed the white-red-white flag.

Ms. Tsikhanouskaya talked about the results of her visit to Prague and shared the plans of the democratic forces. A discussion followed the Belarusian leader’s speech. Ms. Tsikhanouskaya urged the countries to appoint special envoys for relations with Belarus’ democratic forces, as Estonia, France, Sweden, Lithuania, Poland, and other nations have done. The leader requested more visas for Belarusians and called for issuing alien passports, suspending the requirement of apostilles, and recognizing expired Belarusian passports. The participants of the meeting also discussed progress in preparations for the issuance of the new Belarusian passport.

Swedish Migration Agency Announces New Passport Policy for Belarusians Amid Restrictions

Mar 26, 2024

Stockholm, March 26, 2024 – In a landmark decision, the Swedish Migration Agency (Migrationsverket) has released a legal statement addressing the plight of Belarusian citizens struggling to obtain passports due to restrictions imposed by the regime ruling their homeland. The document comes as a response to the decree issued by the illegitimate self-proclaimed ruler of Belarus on September 4, 2023, which effectively halted the issuance and renewal of passports by Belarusian foreign institutions.

The Agency's statement sheds light on the critical need for Belarusians, especially those residing abroad, to access alternative means of identification and travel documentation. The legal stance emphasizes the challenges faced by Belarusians who, as a result of the decree, find themselves unable to acquire new passports without returning to Belarus. The Agency pointedly stated, "Under the current conditions, Belarusians should not be encouraged to travel home to obtain passports. In practice, this means that Belarusian citizens abroad do not have the opportunity to obtain a document that acts as a passport."

This development significantly impacts the ability of Belarusians living abroad to apply for foreign passports, acknowledging that obtaining a valid passport document within a reasonable timeframe is now an impossibility for them.

As a direct consequence, the Swedish Migration Agency is poised to issue foreigner passports or alternative documents to those Belarusian citizens within Sweden who find themselves unable to obtain a passport due to these stringent restrictions. This move aims to ensure their eligibility to apply for a residence permit, with the Agency clarifying, "[...] in some cases, a foreigner may be granted a residence permit even in the absence of a passport if it is not possible to obtain a passport within a reasonable period (see section 2.1 and §§ 1 of the Aliens Act), either through the foreign representation of their country or through the authorities at home. Under the current conditions, it can be assumed that an applicant from Belarus who is abroad does not have the opportunity to obtain a passport within a reasonable period."

The issue of identification for Belarusians has been a focal point of discussions between Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, the democratically elected leader of Belarus, and the People's Embassy of Belarus in Sweden, as they seek to navigate the challenges posed by the current regime's restrictive policies. This latest development from the Swedish Migration Agency marks a crucial step towards addressing the immediate needs of Belarusian citizens in Sweden, providing them with a semblance of security and mobility amidst ongoing reign of terror in their homeland.

Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya met with Czech leadership

Mar 26, 2024

Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya’s working visit to Prague featured several high-level meetings, including with the President of the Czech Republic, Petr Pavel. During the conversation, the Belarusian leader raised several important issues, including the situation with political prisoners, harsh prison conditions, and coordinated pressure on the regime.

In addition, the dialogue focused on ways to stop Belarus’ involvement in the war. Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya specifically raised the issue of the European perspective for Belarus and called on the president to support it. At the end of the meeting, the Belarusian leader presented Petr Pavel with the Cross of Good Neighbourhood.

After the meeting, Ms. Tsikhanouskaya noted: “I am grateful to Czechia and the Czech President for their firm position in supporting Ukraine and free Belarus. The most important thing I wanted to convey is that the Belarus issue must not be postponed for later and Belarus must not become a consolation prize for Putin. The crisis in the region requires a comprehensive solution that includes Belarus. Democratic changes in our country are an investment in the security of Ukraine and the entire Europe”.

Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya also met with the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Jan Lipavský, the President of the Senate, Miloš Vystrčil, and the Speaker of the Parliament, Markéta Pekarová Adamová.

⚪️ Ms. Tsikhanouskaya urged the foreign minister to consider ways to soften the visa ban, including by making exceptions for certain groups, including students and relatives of Belarusians in the Czech Republic.

🔴 The President of the Czech Senate and the Belarusian leader laid flowers at the graves of the leaders of the Belarusian Democratic Republic. After the ceremony, Ms. Tsikhanouskaya and the Czech side discussed broader recognition of the United Transitional Cabinet and ways to strengthen its legitimacy.

⚪️ Ms. Tsikhanouskaya discussed a support campaign for political prisoners with the Speaker of the Parliament. A conference on Belarusian political prisoners is being prepared, organized by the Office of Belarus Democratic Forces in the Czech Republic and Czech patrons.

How can Europe help Belarusians?

Mar 21, 2024

Keynote points of Pavel Latushka, Head of the National Anti-Crisis Management, Deputy Head of the United Transitional Cabinet of Belarus

20 March 2024, Warsaw

Dear ladies and gentlemen, dear friends, I am pleased to welcome all the guests - the EU Member States Special Envoys for the Eastern Partnership, and especially Ambassador Dirk Schuebel for organizing the meeting and the opportunity to speak up.

We are in the Free Belarus Museum - which not only collects artifacts of protest Belarus of 2020 and beyond, makes exhibitions of Belarusian artists, theater performances, but is also an open socio-political and discussion platform for the entire democratic community. The museum is one of the projects of the National Anti-Crisis Management team, which I represent here.

To show you the scale and permanence of repression, which operates like a conveyor belt, we have taken news about arrests, detentions and trials on political grounds over the last 10 days only. As you can see on the screen, all this happens in Belarus every day.

New information from Belarus this morning. Detentions, trials - and so on every day.

It's been 4 years since the beginning of the events of the summer of 2020 in Belarus. 2 years since the beginning of the war of Russia and Lukashenko's regime against Ukraine.

In the context of world history, these years and events are only a moment. But for millions of Belarusians the events of the last years became the biggest and hardest test in their lives. And the longest.

According to the human rights center "Dissidentby", as of today there are 1602 officially recognised political prisoners in Belarus. 1082 political prisoners have already served their terms.

As you can see, Lukashenko's regime puts new political prisoners in place of those released.

At least five political prisoners have already died in prison: Vitold Ashurok, Ales Pushkin, Mikalai Klimovich, Vadzim Khrasko, Igorr Lednik. Torture, inhuman conditions, lack of medical care - this is what political prisoners face in Lukashenko's prisons. And they die.

6 political prisoners are in incommunicado status. The leader of the Social Democrats Mikalai Statkevich has been in incommunicado status for more than 400 days. We know nothing about his fate.

According to the report by the Centre for Law and Democracy Justice Hub, from May 2020 to May 2023 at least 136 thousand people became victims of crimes against humanity in Belarus. Illegal deprivation of liberty, torture, murder, rape and other serious forms of sexual violence, including against minors, enforced disappearances, deportations - this is what happens in Belarus. Every day.

All independent mass media have been liquidated in Belarus. During these 3.5 years 1500 non-governmental organizations have been eliminated in Belarus, 950 are in the process of liquidation. All 11 political parties have been liquidated. We can state the almost complete destruction of civil society.

What is Lukashenko’s power based on

To date, Lukashenko has held on to power primarily thanks to the security forces and financial and economic support from the Russian Federation.

One of the important factors of the regime's financial sustainability is the use of opportunities to circumvent EU, US and other sanctions through Belarus in the interests of Russia.

Smuggling, corruption schemes, as well as actually legal income due to the lack of synchronization of sanctions against Russia and Lukashenko's regime. All this allows the dictator to earn quite a lot of money.

The electoral cycle has started in Belarus.

First stage. On the 25th of February Lukashenko organized the appointment of deputies to the parliament.

We defined this day as a "day with no choice". There were only two candidates for one mandate in Lukashenko's parliament. The forecast of independent political analysts and journalists about whom Lukashenko would appoint to his parliament was 100% confirmed. We proceed from the fact that this institution can’t have international recognition and participate in international parliamentary organizations due to the fact that this body is not a body representing the Belarusian people.

Second stage of electoral cycle. On the 25-26 of April Minsk will host a session of the All-Belarusian People's Assembly, a constitutional body created by Lukashenko. This body will actually become higher than the parliament. It actually appoints deputies of various levels, judges, prosecutors, representatives of the power bloc, the government, Lukashenko's administration and non-governmental organizations fully controlled by the regime - 1200 members.

Lukashenko has created 4 parties, which are not political structures in the general sense of the word, and are fully incorporated into Lukashenko's totalitarian system.

The third stage after the establishment of the All-Belarusian People's Assembly will be the election of the President of Belarus, which can take place either in 2024 or 2025. The decision on the date of the election is in the exclusive competence of the dictator.

Today we can state that Belarus has a totalitarian system.

Lukashenko is under Putin's considerable control and is in fact a puppet implementing policies in his interests. Lukashenko balances the issues of maintaining power inside Belarus, using tools to obtain economic resources from Russia and performing military-political and diplomatic tasks in the Kremlin's interests.

Democratic Forces of Belarus

We can state a unique situation that has developed among the democratic forces of Belarus. It is unique from the point of view of the history of modern Europe. We actually have three institutions that represent the interests of Belarusians abroad and carry out actions aimed at influencing the internal agenda in Belarus.

The first institution is the President-Elect, and at the same time the head of the United Transitional Cabinet of Belarus - Svetlana Tsikhanovskaya.

The second institution is the United Transitional Cabinet as the executive body of the democratic forces, which I have the honor to represent today.

The third institution is the Coordination Council.

Preservation, strengthening and development of these institutions is the general strategy of the democratic majority in Belarusian society today. We face the important task of organizing direct elections to the Coordination Council, which could take place between May and September 2024.

At the same time, a number of new institutions with both socio-political, civic and human rights orientation have emerged in recent years. Among them we can single out the Office of Svietlana Tsikhanovskaya, NAM, organizations of former law enforcers of Belarus - Belpol and Baypol, workers' movement - Rabochy Rukh, Cyberpartisans and others.

Due to the impossibility to carry out professional activities on the territory of Belarus, a wide network of independent media has been created abroad, among which it is important to mention Belsat, Euroradio, Radio Racja, Nasha Niva, Malanka TV and others. Belarusan bloggers and relevant channels operate from abroad.

The non-governmental sector of Belarus in connection with relocation is also represented abroad, however, as well as the above-mentioned institutions, it continues to interact through confidential channels with Belarusians living inside the country. Here we can note the presence of dozens, if not hundreds, of non-governmental organizations.

Thus, we have a unique situation of actual preservation of institutions, non-governmental organizations, political structures and independent media, which work daily to change the situation in Belarus.

We are self-critical about our performance, but at the same time, the fact that we have managed to maintain consolidation and a certain degree of efficiency over three and a half years is important.

Strategy towards Belarus

Unfortunately, we have to admit that since 2020 there has been no clear understandable strategy of actions aimed at changing the situation in Belarus.

During this time Lukashenko:

Unfolded the most large-scale mass repressions against the Belarusian society for the last 50 years of European history.
Crimes are committed in Belarus, which according to official documents of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe, the European Parliament and the UN Human Rights Council are recognised as crimes against humanity.
Organized the hijacking of a Ryanair civilian aircraft, thereby actually committed an act of terrorism.
Organized an undeclared war with the use of illegal migrants against Belarus' neighboring states that are EU members.
Provided the territory of Belarus for aggression against Ukraine.
Has become Russia's main ally in military-industrial and trade and economic cooperation. Neither North Korea, nor Venezuela, nor any other countries can match the scale of tactical and strategic assistance provided by Lukashenko in Russia's aggression against Ukraine.
Achieved the deployment of tactical nuclear weapons on the territory of Belarus. We can predict that the next step will be the deployment of strategic nuclear weapons on the territory of the country.

As of today, we must state that the only country that has a clear systematic strategy of actions in relation to Belarus is the Russian Federation, which has set as its strategic goal the incorporation of the territory of Belarus into the Russian Federation. The so-called Union State of Belarus and Russia is used for this purpose.

If we see today the actions of Russia aimed at the military occupation of Ukraine, then at the same time we must state that Russia carries out actions of non-military occupation of Belarus.

What is the strategy of the Russian Federation? Their strategy is to provide informational, ideological, cultural influence on the Belarusian society. At the same time, they marginalize Belarusian culture, Belarusian language in Belarus, strengthen the perception inside the country, among Belarusians, of unity with Russian society, rewrite history, etc. This is militarisation of society, identification of the European Union, the United States of America, and democratic values in general as common enemies. For this purpose, both informational propaganda tools and creation of pro-Russian non-governmental organizations on the territory of Belarus, bribery, corruption of state officials, introduction of persons connected with Russian special services into the system of national defense and security are used.

An important thesis that I would like to voice. We are fully aware that the responsibility for the future of Belarus as an independent, sovereign state, first of all, lies with the Belarusian people. And our goal is not to shift this responsibility to our partners, who are assisting us in this difficult period of struggle for our sovereignty and independence. However, without international support, without a mutual strategy of actions, the achievement of our goal will be longer in time and less realistic.

I don’t think that we have too high expectations of possible action from our partners. Rather, we are often faced with an underestimated desire to use the available arsenal to prosecute and hold the Lukashenko regime accountable for all the violations of international law and human rights that I have mentioned.

Main challenge and threats

Today Belarus is in the geopolitical context of the war initiated by Russia against Ukraine. It should be understood that territorially Belarus is surrounded by Ukraine, Poland, Lithuania, and Latvia and is in the center of geopolitical events.

The “Belarus balcony” is of strategic importance for the interests of the Russian Federation and will certainly be further used by Russia in continuing the war against Ukraine and destabilizing the situation in the neighboring countries of Belarus.

Is it possible to reach an agreement with Lukashenko? This is an unrealistic scenario. By his mentality, Lukashenko is a man connected with the Russian world and devoted to the interests of the Russian Federation. At the same time, he is a man who would like to retain a certain control over the territory of Belarus. And he will balance his relations with Putin only in the context related to obtaining more economic resources to preserve his power, gradually giving up a part of sovereignty in favor of the Russian Federation. Any steps in the direction of the West can mean only one thing - the desire to receive even more funds for loyalty to the Kremlin.

The key factor that can change the situation in Belarus is the Belarusian people, who need to regain their subjectivity in terms of influence on the internal and external policy of Belarus.

The key factor and strategy of the democratic forces of Belarus is to support Ukraine and the victory of Ukraine over Russia as an aggressor country.

Russia is currently pursuing a strategy aimed at demotivating Western partners to provide financial, economic and other assistance to Ukraine. In my opinion, the West can apply a similar, somewhat mirror-like strategy towards Russia. The most powerful sanctions against Russia are the elimination of Lukashenko's regime in Belarus. Even destabilization of his regime will force Russia to invest more in supporting Lukashenko.

In 2020, the Belarusian people took to the streets in protest and declared their desire to live in a democratic state, in a common European home. At that time, we noted the highest possible degree of motivation of Belarusians to fight for their rights, for the European perspective.

For almost four years, the Belarusian people have been subjected to the most large-scale repressions, which led to human casualties and to the deportation of a huge number of Belarusians. And at the same time, there is a perception in the Belarusian society that the partners are not interested in supporting the Belarusian people. I do not say this on my own behalf, I bring this thesis based on the information that we receive from inside Belarus, from the active part of the Belarusian society.

Belarusians often feel frustration because in response to the struggle for their freedom, for democracy, for supporting Ukraine, Belarusians have lost their lives. Many Belarusians have been killed, have been repressed, and are in prisons on sentences of more than 20 years of imprisonment. But there is no appropriate reaction against those persons who are guilty of committing these crimes.

Therefore, it seems crucial to implement the following strategy of actions and concrete steps:

First. It is important for us to identify among the member states of the European Union the partner countries at the level of the Ministries of Foreign Affairs, Ministries of Justice, which would be ready together with us to carry out targeted legal actions to transfer the materials on crimes against humanity for consideration in the International Criminal Court in the context of deportation of at least 100 thousand Belarusians to the territory of the member states of the European Union.

According to the lawyers of the National Anti-Crisis Management, this approach is the most realistic in terms of raising the question of bringing Lukashenko to justice for the international crimes committed. This is an instrument of justice, influence on the presidential election, on the split of elites in the future.

Second. Ukraine's support in initiating an arrest warrant against Lukashenko for war crimes related to the illegal transfer of Ukrainian children to the territory of Belarus and their indoctrination is important to us. According to the National Anti-Crisis Management, our team, at least 3,000 Ukrainian children from 20 settlements were taken to the territory of Belarus between September 2022 and May 2023. We submitted two communications to the ICC in The Hague.

The question of Lukashenko's responsibility for the war is of strategic importance. For today Lukashenko sells the thesis about his non-involvement in the aggression to the Belarusian society. And this is another strategic informational mistake. The international attention is not focused on Lukashenko's responsibility for the aggression, for the victims that the Ukrainian people bear. This leads to the perception among Belarusians that Lukashenka is not guilty of anything, is not involved in the aggression, and, on the contrary, does everything to establish peace.

The third element of the strategy. We need a program of support for independent media. Recently, we have noted a decrease in financial support for the independent media in Belarus.

The fourth element of the strategy is to support the national identity of Belarusians, to support Belarusian culture in emigration, to create centers of Belarusian culture and education - the Belarusian National University, the National Theatre, other cultural institutions for preserving the national culture, its subsequent relocation to Belarus, and through these institutions to spread informational and cultural influence on Belarusian society inside the country.

The fifth element of the strategy. The Lukashenko regime has taken actions aimed at reducing the possibilities of the consular services of the European Union on the territory of Belarus; we are fully aware of this. At the same time, it seems important to jointly work out approaches that would allow more opportunities for Belarusians to visit the European Union, to obtain multiple-entry and Schengen visas. Greater openness of the European Union for the Belarusian society will contribute to the formation of a positive image of the EU among Belarusans.

The sixth factor of the strategy is the key one - the Belarusian people.

Closure of border crossings

We are fully aware of the importance of ensuring the national security of Belarus’ neighboring states and understand the logic aimed at increasing control over Belarusian citizens entering the territory of these countries. At the same time, Belarusians perceive these actions as directed against them, not against Lukashenko's regime. Since, as I said above, there is no international responsibility, no large-scale sanctions are imposed, and this leads to the perception of Belarusians that it is the citizens of Belarus, and not the dictator, who are responsible for what happens in the country.

As a politician, I absolutely support all the actions of our partners aimed at strengthening national security and defense. The acquisition of F-16 aircrafts, leopards and other military weapons is certainly necessary and important. At the same time, I think it is important for us to realize that the main weapon is the people. The Belarusian people, who in 2020 opposed the dictator, who in 2022 opposed aggression against Ukraine. The Belarusian people, who are subjected to repressions on a daily basis, are our main weapon in the situation if the Putin regime and Lukashenko decide to reuse the territory of Belarus for aggression against Ukraine or one of the EU member states. And motivation is very important here. I think none of us would like to see a Belarusian soldier on the border with the European Union in a few years, who is ready to enter the territory of the EU. Therefore, purposeful actions to support Belarusians, exactly actions, are very important today.

I thank sincerely all our partners, the foreign ministries of the EU member states for their principled position in supporting our struggle for freedom.

The Eastern Partnership is an initiative that undoubtedly contributes to stimulating the European choice of Belarusians. But in order to bring this choice closer, it is very important for us to motivate Belarusians. The actions I mentioned above are only a part of a possible strategy. For us, of course, it would be a very serious step if the democratic forces of Belarus were given a place in the Eastern Partnership. It is difficult, but it is a very important political decision. We are ready to take this place, we are ready to intensify our cooperation within the framework of the Eastern Partnership.

It is also important for us to feel and understand that without civil society and democratic forces of Belarus today the issues of the future of Belarus cannot be solved.

We're stronger together.

Source: NAM

Anatoli Liabedzka commented on conference on New Belarus Constitution: “We are creating a stable legal framework for the new Belarus”

Mar 16, 2024

On March 15, when Constitution Day is celebrated in Belarus, the Lithuanian Seimas hosted a conference titled “Investments in the Long-term Future of Democratic Belarus: Key Reform Strategies”. In the video address, Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya’s Advisor for Constitutional Reform and Interparliamentary Cooperation, Anatoli Liabedzka, comments on the conference and its results:

“During the conference, we presented six draft laws to complement and develop the Constitution. After their elaboration, the documents will be handed over to the United Transitional Cabinet, and after the election – to the Coordination Council of the new convocation. In this way, we are creating a stable legal framework for the new Belarus, so that after the democratic transition of power, the new government can carry out political reforms as soon as possible”, notes Anatoli Liabedzka.

European Parliament members signed more than 600 postcards for Belarusian political prisoners

Mar 13, 2024

On March 11-14, the European Parliament is holding a solidarity campaign with Belarusian political prisoners. Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya’s Advisor on Parliamentary Cooperation and Constitutional Reform, Anatoli Liabedzka, was present during the solidarity action on March 13. The politician reported that within the framework of the #EPSTANDSBYYOU initiative, MEPs, including the EP President, Roberta Metsola, have already signed more than 600 postcards for Belarusian political prisoners. In addition, MEPs raise awareness of the dire situation with political prisoners in Belarus and share information about it on social media with the hashtag #EPSTANDSBYYOU.

This is the second campaign of the initiative. The first one was held in December 2022.

Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya: “The new launch of this initiative is the result of my recent meeting with Roberta Metsola, the President of the European Parliament. I am grateful to Roberta and the members of the European Parliament for supporting this idea. I am convinced that #EPSTANDSBYYOU will encourage politicians all over Europe to join the fight for the freedom of Belarusian political prisoners!”

Court of Appeal in Serbia overturned verdict to extradite Andrei Hniot

Mar 12, 2024

Today, the Court of Appeal in Belgrade overturned the earlier decision on the extradition of filmmaker and activist Andrei Hniot to Belarus and sent the case for a new hearing to the High Administrative Court in Belgrade. In overturning the earlier decision, the court of appeal noted that not all the circumstances of the case had been properly considered. It also found a violation of Andrei Hniot and his defense’s right to appear before the court and give testimonies in person. The next hearing of the case in the court of first instance is scheduled for March 26.

Together with the annulment of the decision of the court of first instance, the court extended Andrei’s detention for another 60 days. This does not mean that he will spend the whole term in prison: in case of a decision in favor of Andrei, he will be released from custody.

Given that the Interpol Central Bureau has blocked access to Andrei’s profile, Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya’s Advisor on Legal Affairs, Kristina Rikhter, hopes for a positive outcome: “I am very grateful to the diplomatic corps of the European Union countries in Belgrade. The ambassadors of several countries responded very quickly to our lawyers’ request for assistance – and organized both negotiations at the diplomatic level and attendance at the appeal court hearing, thus expressing their solidarity with Andrei”.

The Office’s Legal Department will continue to closely follow the fate of Andrei’s case and will be in constant communication with lawyers and the diplomatic corps.

We urge Belarusians to support Andrei with letters of support. The address is: Andrei Hniot, Centralni zatvor, Bačvanska 14, 11050 Beograd (Voždovac).

Simplification of migration, support for Council of Europe’s document on Belarus: Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya met with leadership of Croatia

Mar 07, 2024

During the European People’s Party Congress, the Belarusian leader met with the Prime Minister of Croatia, Andrej Plenković, as well as the Minister of the Interior, Davor Božinović. Ms. Tsikhanouskaya expressed gratitude to Croatia for supporting the Council of Europe’s recent document on Belarus, which calls for issuing more visas to Belarusians and resolving the legalization of stay problems.

The Belarusian leader asked the politicians to simplify the legalization of stay for Belarusians in Croatia, including issuing alien passports, recognizing expired Belarusian passports as valid, and lifting the apostille requirement.

The parties discussed the situation with political prisoners in Belarus. Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya spoke about prisoners held incommunicado by the regime and called for efforts to secure their immediate release through international organizations. Additionally, she proposed that Croatia support a rehabilitation program for the children of the repressed and facilitate events involving the Belarusian diaspora.

“It is our moral obligation to fight for political prisoners”

Mar 06, 2024

Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya gave speech at the meeting of the EPP Young Members Network in Bucharest, Romania:

“Dear EPP friends,

Thank you, dear Roberta and dear Eva for your strong words, for your bravery, and for everything you do for Belarus and Ukraine.

I will never stop repeating how much I admire women-leaders like you. If Lukashenka was in this room, he would probably have a heart attack.

In his obsolete world view, the place for a woman is in the kitchen to cook borshch, but not in politics.

When in 2020 I ran for president instead of my imprisoned husband, the dictator registered me as a joke. “No one will vote for a woman”, he said. But I won. We won.

But like a classic coward, Lukashenka refused to step down. Instead, he unleashed terror against his own people. Our beautiful peaceful protest was drowned in blood, in tears, in pain.

Lukashenka often repeats: “I don’t fight with women”. However, this is exactly what he does.

And it is not only women. Among 1500 political prisoners almost half are young people. They are activists and volunteers, entrepreneurs and journalists, paramedics and young engineers.

The regime also attacks students. One of them was at the student desk, when four KGB thugs in masks broke into an Economics lecture.

They slammed his face onto the floor, and broke his fingers. And the only reason for their brutality were 8 anti-war comments he posted on Youtube.

Some of political prisoners were just 16 when they landed in Lukashenka’s jails. Some already celebrated their third birthday behind bars, and missed their school graduation party.

Some tried to kill themselves, when they got their draconian sentences of 5, 8 or 12 years. One couldn’t no longer bear such torment and tried to cut his throat…with a pen – the only personal item he was allowed to have. It is sickening.

In very rare letters home, political prisoners write that they don’t have dreams about freedom anymore. Their dreams are about food, just normal food.

Another one, Stsiapan Latypau, is dying from scurvy – the disease when your body severely lacks vitamin C.

Some others already lost hope of release, and are ready to end up like Alexei Navalny.

In prisons, political prisoners are forced to bear a yellow label, which means they are political and subject to harsher treatment. Sometimes you can be beaten and tortured.

Many including my husband are being held incommunicado, in full isolation, in punishment cells. This is the worst form of torture.

The only information political prisoners receive is from propaganda newspapers. It takes some time to learn how to read between the lines, to understand what’s really going on.

The regime is doing everything possible to make them feel abandoned.

It forces their relatives to publicly denounce children, sisters, and brothers as enemies of the state.

We read it in books about Stalin times, but we never believed it would be possible in the 21-st century.

Lawyers who are the only contact for political prisoners with the outside world, are often repressed too.

Those who send parcels or letters to political prisoners, got detained. The very solidarity is criminalized.

Political prisoners are having their own fight. And the goal of this fight is simple — at the very least to survive.

And our moral obligation is to fight for them. I know that they count on us. And they count on you.

First of all, we should make their release our priority and our commitment. Obviously, we don’t have a key to prisons. But we have other tools. For almost two years, no strong sanctions were imposed for repressions, torture, and political prisoners.

If the regime knows that for every death, for every illegal detention, it will be taken into account – the situation could be very different. Help us to advocate for stronger sanctions against the regime, and for opening investigation of its crimes.

And second, I ask you to highlight the stories of political prisoners, especially young people, so their fight is not forgotten. Swiss-German NGO Libereco has launched the campaign of “adopting” political prisoners. Already, more than 400 parliamentarians from all over the world became “godparents”.

Some EPP leaders did it as well. Roberta Metsola became a godmother for Palina Sharenda Panasiuk, and Radek Sikorski became a “godparent” for my husband Siarhei Tsikhanouski.

I ask you to join this campaign as well. We brought brochures for you, where you can read how to do it. It will take five minutes of your time, but for people behind bars – it might save their life.

You can tweet about them, write an article, call their family or send a letter to prison. Every gesture of solidarity matters.

Dear friends,

I know that it is not the most optimistic speech you heard today.

But it is rooted in reality, in the truth of what is happening in Belarus right now.

It is important that we do not turn away from these hard truths, but rather face them head-on with determination and hope.

Remember, our struggle is not just a Belarusian struggle; it is a struggle for democracy, for human rights, for the very essence of what Europe stands for.

As you enter the electoral campaign for the European Parliament, I call on you to become champions of democracy.

To be advocates of all those who risk their lives and their freedom in the name of values we all here stand for.

Include Ukraine and Belarus in your election program. Because the fight for freedom is a global one.

Provide Ukraine with everything it needs. The victory of Ukraine will be the ultimate defeat of Putin and Lukashenka.

And stand with those who fight for free Belarus. Changes in Belarus will bring Ukraine’s victory faster, and will become a huge blow to Putin.

I encourage you to include Belarusian activists and political parties in the work of EPP, YEPP and Young Members network. One day, Belarus will become a part of the European Union, and we can prepare for this day already now.

In the end, let me invite you to join the international Day of Solidarity with Belarus, on March 25. This is our national holiday when we traditionally celebrate our freedom and independence.

I am confident, that one day, we will be celebrating it together with you, in Minsk and other Belarusian cities, without fear but with pride.

Thank you for your attention, your compassion, and your support.”

Restoring relations between Belarus and Bulgaria

Mar 05, 2024

During her working visit to Sofia, the Belarusian leader met with the Prime Minister of Bulgaria. Nikolai Denkov expressed hope for close cooperation between the country and the democratic forces of Belarus.

With her visit, Ms. Tsikhanouskaya aims to restore the relations that have been destroyed by the Lukashenka regime. Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya invited Bulgaria to join the group “For a Democratic Belarus” in the OSCE, as well as support the work of the Contact Group in the Council of Europe.

The dialogue focused on the Russian threat to the independence of Belarus and the regime’s involvement in the war. The parties also discussed ways to hold the regime accountable. Ms. Tsikhanouskaya mentioned the evidence of its crimes gathered by the National Anti-Crisis Management that was submitted to the UN last week.

The Belarusian leader emphasized the issue of political prisoners and called for urgent steps to secure their release, especially of those with serious health issues and those held incommunicado.

The parties also discussed pressure on the regime and ways to make it more effective without isolating Belarusians. Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya called for continued issuance of visas and support for those fleeing repression. In addition, the leader spoke about the new Belarusian passport project and expressed hope for Bulgaria’s support.

“Despite the terror, Belarusians continue to resist”

Mar 05, 2024

Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya spoke at the meeting with European Affairs Committee in Sofia, Bulgaria:

“Dear Mr. Kiril Petkov,

Dear members of the European Affairs Committee,

Dear excellencies, dear friends of freedom,

It is an honor and privilege to address you today. And I know that I am among friends. Your support, your solidarity, your consistency are really inspiring.

It’s my second day here, in Bulgaria, but I already feel how close our nations are. Bulgarians like Belarusians know very well what it is like to live in the shadow of the Empire.

You survived the dark times of Fascist and Communist dictatorships. You survived centuries of Ottoman yoke. You know the price of freedom, how easy to lose it, and how difficult it is to get it back.

For many people in the western democracies, it is hard to understand. For many, democracy is like air. Only when it is not there, you start to suffocate.

Two days ago, you celebrated Liberation Day. I am also proud that Belarusians contributed to Bulgarian freedom. One of those who liberated Sofia was General Gurko, Belarusian nobleman and officer who fought in Russian Army back then.

Another Belarusian freedom fighter fighting for Bulgaria was Nikolai Sudzilouski, known by his nickname Николас Руссель. Born in Belarus, this outstanding doctor, ethnographer, linguist, and writer fell in love with Bulgaria.

And he was one of the organizers of the April uprising against the Ottoman Empire. And now his name, like Gurka’s, became one of the symbols of Bulgarian-Belarusian friendship.

We have many things to learn about each other. And I think my visit here to Sofia will help to restore the relationship between Belarusians and Bulgarians that was destroyed by the regime in Minsk.

Unfortunately, the situation in Belarus doesn’t become better. Political parties, media, and civil society initiatives have been destroyed. Hundreds of thousands had to flee the country because of repressions. This is how Lukashenka takes revenge on people who dared to demand free elections.

Therefore, it’s so crucial right now to isolate the regime, politically, economically through sanctions – through all available means. However, isolating the regime we should not isolate the people.

We should distinguish the regime from the people: it’s the regime who became Putin’s accomplice. Meanwhile, Belarusian people are fighting for democracy and freedom, and supporting Ukraine.

For us, the victory of Ukraine will be also our victory. But also vice versa, changes in Belarus can help Ukraine to win faster. Our fates are interconnected.

Dear friends,

One of the parliamentarians, whom I met today, told me: We, Bulgarians, are not just saying something, we are doing.

So, one of the practical results of this visit would be the creation of the group for free Belarus in the Bulgarian parliament. I invite you to join this group, it would be a strong message of solidarity and support, but also an important instrument to strengthen the cooperation between Bulgaria and free Belarus.

Also, I encourage you to organize a hearing on the situation in Belarus in Parliamentary committees. Your statements, your resolutions are also important.

I ask you to pay particular attention to the situation with human rights abuses, political prisoners, involvement of Lukashenka’s regime in the war, and deployment of nuclear weapons on our territory.

Currently we campaign for a European perspective for Belarus. Belarusians want to hear that in the future, after the regime collapses, we will be able to join the EU and Council of Europe. For us, the European Union is the best and the only alternative to the “Russian world”.

Also consider inviting Belarusians to have short-term internships in your offices, and particularly, in your committee. We need to prepare the future elite, and we can learn democratic processes from you.

And finally, I invite you to pay a visit to Vilnius or Warsaw, to meet former political prisoners, our partisans, military volunteers fighting for Ukraine – to understand our situation, but also to highlight it in your media.

Dear friends,

Thank you.”

People's Embassies of Belarus have been labeled as an "extremist formation" by the regime

Mar 04, 2024

The decision, based on KGB's February 28, 2024, No. 4/3-519 resolution, prohibits our activities in the Republic of Belarus.

Despite embassies being essential for assisting Belarusians abroad, it seems Lukashenko's enforcers are unaware. In the country's new law landscape, not only creating and leading but also being a member of an extremist formation carries legal consequences.

Under Article 361-1 of the Criminal Code, subscribers to channels can be criminally liable if proven to be involved in extremist activities. Those sharing information may face charges for 'assisting an extremist formation' (Article 361-4) or "financing extremist activities" (Article 361-2).

For those in Belarus, we would recommend unsubscribing from our Telegram channel and avoiding the website.

We'll persist in our efforts for the benefit of Belarusian women and men!

Long live Belarus!

Director Andrei Gnet is under threat of extradition to Belarus

Mar 02, 2024

It became known about the detention in Serbia of music video and advertising director, journalist and one of the founders of the Free Association of Athletes SOS BY Andrei Gnet. He faces extradition to Belarus.

Last October, Andrei Gnet flew to Serbia for work from Thailand, where he lived until recently. He was detained right at the airport. The reason was a request from Belarus to Interpol. The Lukashenko regime accuses Gniet of tax evasion in the amount of 300 thousand euros. The activist has been in a Serbian prison for four months. The conditions there, by the way, are quite harsh. Andrei Gnet complained about the lack of medical care, deteriorating vision, hair loss, and that he was not given access to the prison library.

On February 19, a meeting of the appeal court was held, at which Andrei Gnet expressed confidence in the political nature of his case and the intentions of the Lukashenko regime to prosecute him for his public activities. Gniet noted that he left Belarus in 2021 because of the interest of security forces in him as one of the creators of the free association of athletes SOS BY.

This organization is recognized as extremist in Belarus. It was created in 2020 and united Belarusian athletes who spoke out against violence and election fraud. In addition, SOS BY contributed to the cancellation of the 2021 Ice Hockey World Championship in Minsk and the suspension of funding for the National Olympic Committee of Belarus.

“Deadly torture awaits me in Belarus. There is no law in Belarus, no protection, no independent judiciary. Everyone who opposes the authorities is imprisoned, tortured and humiliated,” said Andrei Gnet.

The activist's lawyers informed the European Court of Human Rights in Strasbourg about the essence of the case. The decision of the Serbian court regarding the extradition of Andrei Gnet to the Lukashenko regime should be expected in 20-30 days. Until then, the activist will remain in a Serbian prison.

Friends, please take care of your safety. If you are in Belarus, do not forget to clean your account on Telegram and other social networks. If you left Belarus due to political persecution or the threat of it, do not come to potentially dangerous countries that could hand you over to the current Belarusian authorities.

Source: A country to live in

“When democratic changes happen in my country, EU countries will emerge as our primary trade partners”

Mar 01, 2024

Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya gave speech during the first Belarusian Business Forum in Washington DC:

“Dear organizers and participants of the Belarusian Business Forum in Washington DC,

Dear Friends!

My congratulations with this historic event, such a large Belarusian business event in the US. I wish to express my sincere gratitude to representatives of the Commercial Law Development Program of the U.S. Department of Commerce for their invaluable assistance in organizing this event, as well as the Association of Belarusian Business Abroad for their dedication in bringing this meeting to fruition.

Belarus today is becoming more and more economically dependent on Russia. The share of trade between Belarus and Russia has been growing by double digits yearly since 2021. Russian investors and their proxies are now the key investors in the Belarusian economy. Russia has become the only foreign lender for the Belarusian regime. And this is NOT how it should be. This is NOT how we see the future of Belarus. My team and I, along with millions of Belarusians, are determined to change this reality!

I have a very clear vision that Belarus will always be a part of the global economy, not Russia’s economy. When democratic changes happen in my country, European Union countries will emerge as our primary trade partners. We will actively pursue free-trade agreements with both the EU and the USA, creating one of the most attractive business climates globally.

The Belarusian economy will thrive on the foundation of a robust and innovative private sector, contributing to the establishment of a strong middle class. Many talented Belarusians will return home as business managers, private investors, and entrepreneurs. In the new Belarus, every businessperson will be valued and respected, not only for their contributions to prosperity but also for safeguarding us against dictatorship.

Since August 2020, over three hundred thousand Belarusians have been compelled to leave the country, with many forced to relocate their businesses or start anew from scratch. For most, leaving was not a choice but a necessity to avoid imprisonment. These individuals demonstrated remarkable courage by participating in the protests in Belarus in 2020, and they continue to exhibit bravery in exile as they strive to sustain their businesses.

Belarusian business outside the country has already happened as an institution. We have many thousands of registered businesses with Belarusian shareholders around the world, including the USA. We have well known big IT companies of Belarusian origin, they are present at the world leading stock exchanges. We have many small and micro companies that daily run their business, pay taxes, and create jobs. We have numerous start-ups of talented future Belarusian businessmen and businesswomen. We have ABBA that unites over 100 reputable businesses from 10 countries, fostering collaboration and growth.

We need to stay united. Your voice – the voice of the Belarusian businesspeople – is much stronger if you keep together. Today you will help each other in solving current business problems, advocate your needs and protect your rights; tomorrow you will be a stakeholder of the future political and economic reforms in Belarus. Together we will develop a business repatriation plan to make sure you do not forget your Motherhood and invest in a new free and prosperous Belarus.

The USA is an important destination country for our business for both investment and trade. Here today you’ll have a chance to meet, discuss your problems, and exchange your visions. I call for the US authorities to continue hosting Belarusian businessmen and businesswomen, and they are not only job-takers, but also job-creators. I am happy there is an Assistance Roadmap between the Commercial Law Development Program of the Department of Commerce and the Association of Belarusian Business Abroad. Together with the US Strategic Dialogue with democratic Belarus this should become a solid foundation for close cooperation between democratic Belarus and the USA.

I wish this forum to bring tangible results both for our business community abroad and the wider diaspora. I am very glad that the partners of the forum are well known Belarusian diaspora organizations: Association of Belarusians in America and Belarusian-American Association.

I am proud of Belarusian business. And I will do my best to make them feel proud to be Belarusian business all around the world.

Good luck to you. Let’s build a new Belarus together.”

Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya supported fundraiser to buy drones for Belarusian volunteer fighters in Ukraine

Feb 28, 2024

Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya: “At my previous meeting with the Kastus Kalinouski Regiment, I was informed that the regiment’s UAV air reconnaissance group named after Mikita Kryutsou has completed training for operating FPV drones. And now the regiment has launched a fundraiser to purchase them. At the moment, only half of the needed amount has been raised, so our help is essential.

Every donation we make, which goes towards providing fighters with gear, equipment, and especially drones, helps them save their lives. And that allows the fighters to do everything they can to bring peace to both Ukraine and Belarus and end the dictatorships, aggression, and violence.

My dear friends, if it is safe for you, please support this fundraiser. I know that Belarusian solidarity has no limits. Together, we can reach the fundraiser’s goal and help our fighters”.

Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya addressed ambassadors from 27 countries in Bern

Feb 28, 2024

The Belarusian leader held a briefing at the Polish Embassy in Bern for ambassadors from the EU countries, Ukraine, Canada, the United States, Norway, and the United Kingdom.

In her speech, Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya urged the ambassadors to support the resolution on Belarus at the UN Human Rights Council, which will be considered in the spring, increase pressure on the regime, as well as demand the release of political prisoners.

The leader also called for continuing the two UN mechanisms invoked in relation to Belarus and supporting the implementation of Article 33 in the International Labour Organization, which was invoked against the Lukashenka regime last year.

Ms. Tsikhanouskaya’s speech also focused on cooperation with Belarus’ democratic forces. Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya called for the appointment of special envoys for Belarus, as France, Estonia, Lithuania, Poland, Sweden, and Ukraine have already done and the United States will do soon. The leader also thanked the countries that have already made statements of non-recognition of the regime’s sham election.

The discussion that followed the briefing centered around mechanisms for holding the regime accountable for its crimes, including through universal jurisdiction. The leader emphasized the importance of assistance to the repressed, independent Belarusian media, and human rights defenders.

Lukashenko regime's cooperation with the Russian-occupied territories of Ukraine

Feb 27, 2024

The Lukashenko regime, fearing new sanctions, does not always want to advertise its cooperation with the administration of the Russian-occupied territories of Ukraine, as well as the development of all kinds of ties and contacts with them: economic, informational and ideological, political and others.

Such ties and contacts began even before the full-scale invasion of Ukraine by Russian troops on 24 February 2022. Trade between Belarus and the occupied territories of Ukraine took place in an unlawful format at the level of separate legal entities with the mediation of Russian companies.

After February 2022, the Lukashenko regime's contacts with the Russian-occupied territories of Ukraine became more intensive and reached the official political level.

For example, on 18 April 2023, Lukashenko held a meeting with the so-called "acting head of the DPR" Denis Pushilin as a person in the status of the head of a constituent entity of the Russian Federation, during which he offered assistance in the restoration and development of this Russian-occupied territory.

In addition to cooperation with the "LPR" and "DPR", the illegitimate authorities of Belarus are developing official relations with occupied Crimea. In early March 2023, the leadership of the Vitebsk Regional Executive Committee and the Crimean authorities signed an agreement on trade and economic cooperation. The head of the occupation administration of Crimea, Sergey Aksyonov, and the chairman of the Vitebsk regional executive committee, Alexander Subbotin, agreed to strengthen relations between the regions and outlined the prospects for joint work. Aksyonov then stressed that "Belarusian enterprises are always welcome on the Crimean land.

In addition, the illegitimate authorities of Belarus decided to open the Consulate General of the Republic of Belarus in Rostov-on-Don no later than 1 July 2024. This consular district will include the regions of Ukraine occupied by Russia.

Source: NAM

“Parody of an election”: democratic countries’ reaction to the regime’s sham election

Feb 26, 2024

The so-called “single voting day” took place in Belarus on February 25. Propaganda attempted to show an unprecedented turnout and assure compliance with all electoral procedures. However, it failed to deceive the people who know what democracy is. Look at how representatives of democratic countries reacted to the sham elections.

Austrian MFA: “Today’s parliamentary and local elections in Belarus are neither free nor fair. We will continue to work for a free, independent and prosperous Belarus”.

Ukraine: “Our group “For a Democratic Belarus” urges the international community not to recognize their legitimacy and to use all available tools to get Lukashenka behind bars and out of the presidential palace!”

United States: “The United States condemns the Lukashenka regime’s sham parliamentary and local elections that concluded today in Belarus. The elections were held in a climate of fear under which no electoral processes could be called democratic”.

German MFA: “We strongly condemn the systemic repression surrounding the elections in Belarus. The Lukashenka regime employs all available means to suppress the democratic aspirations of the people of Belarus. It has witnessed their strength – and this strength continues to scare the regime”.

France: “The Lukashenka regime is organizing a parody of a legislative election this Sunday: without opposition and without international observers. We ask the MFA not to recognize the result of these elections and to maintain our support for the opposition”.

NATO PA President: “The sham elections in Belarus don’t fool anyone: they are meaningless. Our governments and parliaments must continue to denounce the regime’s repression, support Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya’s struggle for a democratic Belarus, and call for the release of political prisoners”.

Norwegian MFA: “The sham elections in Belarus yesterday represent a further deterioration of democratic principles and fundamental freedoms, in violation of

OSCE commitments. We condemn the systemic repressions in Belarus and support the democratic aspirations of the Belarusian people”.

PACE President: “These “elections” are a travesty of democracy and lack any democratic legitimacy”.

Chairman of Czech Foreign Affairs Committee: “I still remember, as an election observer within the OSCE mission, one “election” where everything was counted, written down, and then the head of the election commission took out a piece of paper with numbers from his shirt pocket, read them, and that was the final result”.

High Representative on parliamentary and local elections: “It is clear that conditions for free and fair elections were not met and new parliamentary and local officials lack democratic legitimacy. The EU continues to support the democratic right of the Belarusian people to elect their representatives through genuine, democratic and transparent elections”.

Gift to Lukashenko on 23 February

Feb 26, 2024

All those mentioned in the NAM communication to the ICC as persons involved in the illegal transfer of children from the occupied territories of Ukraine to Belarus have been placed on the EU and US sanctions lists

Today the European Union published a 13th package of sanctions against Russia. The EU sanctions include the NGO "Dolphins," Aleksei Talai Foundation, as well as the leaders of these organisations - Olga Volkova and Aleksei Talai, and Dmitri Shevtsov - general secretary of the Belarusian Red Cross Society, as well as Dmitri Demidov - chairman of Navapolatsk City Executive Committee. Recall that in June 2022, Belaruskali CEO Ivan Golovatii fell under the EU sanctions.

Aleksei Talai, as well as State Secretary of the Union State of Belarus and Russia Dmitri Mezentsev, is now also under U.S. sanctions. The imposition of sanctions actually fixes the unlawfulness of the transfer of children from the occupied territories of Ukraine to Belarus, while we, in turn, continue to seek an ICC warrant. Lukashenko is not on this sanctions list only because something more is being prepared for him.

The EU has also adopted blocking restrictions against Lukashenko's military-industrial complex: JSC Peleng, JSC "2566 plant for repair of radio-electronic weapons" and director of this enterprise Valery Shatilo, JSC "Orsha Aircraft Repair Plant" and director of this plant Pavel Sluchak are under sanctions. Earlier, we sent our European partners proposals on a number of Belarusian military-industrial complex enterprises, which work for the needs of the Russian army, with justifications for imposing restrictions. Among them, for example, was Orsha Aircraft Repair Plant, which is now included in the 13 EU sanctions package against Russia, as well as 558 Aircraft Repair Plant in Baranavichy, which, like its director Pavel Pinigin, is now under U.S. sanctions.

Unfortunately, these sanctions do not include a complete ban or restriction on the transit of sanctioned goods through Belarus and Russia, nor do they include significant financial and sectoral sanctions, which are the most effective among other sanctions instruments.

Thus, we have repeatedly informed our European partners about the need to harmonize trade sanctions against Russia and the Lukashenko regime, as the difference in these restrictions allows both regimes, both in Minsk and Moscow, to successfully evade the adopted sanctions measures. Lukashenko's regime is 12 times less restricted than Russia's, making it a huge window for the Kremlin to evade sanctions. We gave examples of such evasion in our mini-investigation "What do EU statistics reveal or what is the purpose of sanctions harmonization?".

Another problem is "false" transit. For example, in 2022-2023, goods worth more than 10 billion euros passed through Belarus to Russia. Examples of "false" transit to Russia with the help of intermediaries from Belarus and Kazakhstan were uncovered in a joint investigation by "The Bureau", "Verstka" and the international Centre for Corruption and Organised Crime Research (OCCRP).

In order to stop circumventing sanctions through third countries, transit through Belarus and Russia to third countries should be either completely stopped (at least for critical goods for the military-industrial complex) or restricted through trade quotas.

Source: NAM

Special envoys for Belarus gathered for common meeting in Vilnius

Feb 24, 2024

A large meeting of special envoys and diplomats responsible for issues related to Belarus took place at Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya’s Office in Vilnius.

Representatives from more than 15 countries gathered there, including Canada, the Czech Republic, Estonia, France, Germany, Ireland, Israel, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Poland, Spain, Sweden, Ukraine, the United Kingdom, and the United States. Ukraine’s Ambassador-at-Large for Belarus, Ihor Kyzym, also attended the meeting.

Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya delivered a speech to launch the meeting. Here are the highlights of her address:

📌 “There are many problems in Belarus. The biggest one is that people are dying in prisons. And we don’t have a simple solution for how to release them. The level of repression is so high that our scope for action inside the country is very limited”.

📌 “The Lukashenka propaganda tries to convince people that they are abandoned and that nobody wants to see us in Europe. I hope that in your communication, you will emphasize that democratic Belarus deserves to be part of the European family”.

📌 “We are trying to meet the practical needs of Belarusians in exile. Firstly, we advocate for more visas. Secondly, we request recognition of expired passports, issuance of alien passports, and simplified procedures for residency”.

The politicians also discussed ways to hold the regime accountable and support civil society and the media.

Political prisoner Ihar Lednik died in imprisonment

Feb 21, 2024

According to Viasna, another political prisoner and a civil activist Ihar Lednik died at the age of 64. Despite having a second-degree disability due to heart problems, the political prisoner was still sentenced to imprisonment.

In the colony, Ihar Lednik’s health deteriorated significantly, and he underwent gastrointestinal surgery. The political prisoner’s cause of death was cardiac arrest. Doctors tried to resuscitate him, but to no avail.

He was sentenced to three years of imprisonment for “slandering Lukashenko” for writing an article in Pazicyja, a magazine of the Belarusian Social Democratic Party (BSDP). According to the case file, the article contained “deliberately false information discrediting and degrading the honor and dignity of Lukashenko, combined with accusations of particularly serious crimes, against the security of mankind among others.”

This is the fifth death of a political prisoner behind bars in Belarus.

Source: Voice of Belarus

Belarus is high on the EU agenda

Feb 20, 2024

On 19 February, the European Council adopted its conclusions on Belarus. These conclusions identify specific issues of concern to the EU and define actions or targets to be taken. In fact, this document defines the strategy of the European Union towards our country.

High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Josep Borrell, commenting on the adoption of these conclusions, said that "Belarus remains high on the EU agenda". He condemned the unprecedented repression and emphasized that those responsible would be brought to justice.

It is important to note that the repressive policy of the Lukashenko regime is primarily characterized by the widespread commission of crimes that qualify as crimes against humanity. According to the commentary of the UN International Law Commission, such crimes are a threat to international peace and security, which obliges the entire international community to take adequate measures to prevent these crimes.

In the adopted document, the European Council expressed concern about the deteriorating human rights situation in Belarus. Moreover, the European Council reaffirmed its commitment to hold accountable those responsible for human rights violations.

Now, more than ever, it is critical to effectively apply existing international legal mechanisms to stop the killings of political prisoners in Lukashenko's prisons. Today, the death of Ihar Lednik became known - and this is the fifth known death of a political prisoner. Vitold Ashurak, Ales Pushkin, Mikalai Klimovich, Vadim Khrasko, Ihar Lednik - all these people lost their lives and were actually killed by the Lukashenko regime.

We have repeatedly conveyed to our partners our readiness to start interaction within the Consultative Group between the EU and Belarusian democratic forces and civil society to develop clear steps to bring to justice those responsible, to restore justice for the victims of crimes against humanity in Belarus, and to stop further victims among Belarusians.

Source: NAM

Responsibility for slavery in the twenty-first century

Feb 20, 2024

An urgent matter requiring immediate attention is the problem of political prisoners in Belarus and the use of their slave labor in numerous enterprises based on colonies and prisons.

Currently, there are 1,422 officially recognised political prisoners in Belarus, who are illegally kept in open and closed detention facilities. According to the representative on social policy of the United Transitional Cabinet of Belarus Olga Gorbunova, about 1400 political prisoners have already served their illegally imposed terms and survived penitentiary repression and prison slave labor in the production facilities of the colonies. The most tragic are the deaths of political prisoners: Vitold Ashurak, Mikalai Klimovich, Ales Pushkin, Vadzim Hrasko and Ihar Lednik.

Political prisoners are illegally held in various institutions of the Department of Corrections of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Lukashenko regime. In Belarus there are 16 correctional colonies, 4 correctional colonies-settlements, 28 open-type institutions, or "chemistry" in popular language, where they are not only tortured, but also subjected to forced labor.

Political prisoners in penitentiaries are engaged in the production of specific goods, which are then sold both openly, including through online shops, and through numerous dealers and intermediaries, who when selling the goods change the manufacturer of the goods, i.e. do not indicate that the goods are produced by prisoners in the colonies.

Also these goods can be exported, including to the markets of the EU member states. Revenues from the Belarusian prison-industrial conveyor belt are considerable. And these revenues are used to finance both the retention of Lukashenko's power and the repression itself.

We ask and urge all non-different and fighting against the regime citizens, mass media, democratic leaders, members of associations, parties, organizations, diasporas, all Belarusians and people sympathetic to Belarusians to speak as much as possible about the problem of political prisoners, forced labor and inevitability of punishment of Lukashenko's regime for the repression of the Belarusian people.

Leaving the problem of political prisoners without the attention of the world community will continue to lead to tragic deaths behind Lukashenko's bars.

We are obliged to do everything possible and impossible to stop repression, slavery and deaths of the Belarusian people. And to stop the existence of Lukashenko's criminal regime.

Source: NAM

Marharyta Vorykhava became first ever representative of Belarus in Council of Europe’s Advisory Council on Youth

Feb 19, 2024

The Advisory Council on Youth of the Council of Europe is a unique platform for cooperation between government bodies and youth organizations of the continent. In fact, the decisions made during its discussions determine youth policy throughout all of Europe.

Although Belarus is not a member of the Council of Europe, Belarusian youth have the opportunity to assert themselves in the international arena and influence key processes in various spheres. At the European Youth Forum in Strasbourg, Margarita Vorykhava was elected to represent Belarus in the Advisory Council.

“My priority will be to protect the interests of young people from all over Europe and, of course, from Belarus. I will aim to gain full support from the member states of the Council of Europe in Belarus’ pursuit of democracy. For us, this will mean strengthening the support for Belarusians in the international arena”, explains Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya’s Advisor on Youth Policy and Students, Marharyta Vorykhava.

Let us emphasize. This is the first case when someone from Belarus is represented in the Advisory Council on Youth of the Council of Europe. The inclusion of a representative of Belarus guarantees that our problems will be highlighted.

1. What is the Advisory Council?

The Advisory Council on Youth of the Council of Europe deals with youth policy development. It consists of 30 representatives from youth organizations and NGOs. The council operates based on a cooperative approach, where government and youth representatives from various organizations work together. This body ensures that young people are recognized as equal partners in policy development, embodying the principle of “nothing about us without us”.

The council aims to address specific issues related to youth and to develop recommendations for member states of the Council of Europe, as well as to advise the Committee of Ministers. Essentially, it serves as a platform where different viewpoints are brought together, and recommendations are formulated, which directly influence the well-being and interests of youth.

2. How can the Advisory Council benefit Belarusian youth?

Despite Belarus not being a member state of the Council of Europe, Belarusians can actively participate in decision-making on policies that directly affect them.

A vivid example of the council’s influence is its full support for the Council of Europe’s Contact Group on Belarus. Belarusian youth can contribute to shaping pan-European policies, expanding their opportunities, and representing themselves on the international stage.

3. What role does Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya’s Advisor on Youth Policy and Students play?

Marharyta Vorykhava is the representative elected by the European Youth Forum to the Advisory Council on Youth. Her role is to advocate for the interests of young people across Europe and, specifically, from Belarus.

Ms. Vorykhava will focus on ensuring the full support of the Council of Europe member states in Belarus’ pursuit of democracy. This involves mobilizing support for Belarusians in the international arena. Ms. Vorykhava’s election to the council also emphasizes the importance of democracy, human rights, and the voice of Belarusian youth in the international agenda.

4. What does representation in this body mean?

This is the first time someone from Belarus (or any other state that is not a member of the Council of Europe) has the opportunity to be represented in this body. The inclusion of a representative from Belarus not only signifies a step towards greater inclusivity but also guarantees that our issues will be highlighted at the forefront.

5. What impact can Belarus’ membership in the council make?

One of the privileges of membership in the Advisory Council on Youth Affairs is participation in the allocation of funds to the youth sector through the European Youth Foundation. This can be directed toward supporting initiatives, programs, and projects that benefit Belarusian youth.

Additionally, the Advisory Council discusses various issues, including positions on current problems. This means there is an opportunity to influence the Council of Europe to take a firm stance on events and issues faced by the Belarusian civil society.

6. Can Belarusians participate in the council’s work?

If you believe that the Council of Europe should take a certain stance on a specific issue, adopt recommendations, or formulate specific policies, please contact us.

Regardless of whether you are in Belarus or abroad, if you see opportunities for positive change or ways to contribute to the well-being of youth, do not hesitate to share your ideas – we are open to implementing each of them in practice.

“I don’t even want to think that after Navalny, my husband can be next”

Feb 17, 2024

Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya spoke at the “Safeguarding Democracy: How to Confront Information Manipulation” event co-organized by GLOBSEC during the Munich Security Conference. During her address, Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya noted: The lives of thousands of Belarusians depend on the reaction of Western countries to the murder of Alexei Navalny.

Here are the key messages from Ms. Tsikhanouskaya’s speech:

📌 “Alexei Navalny’s murder is a dark reminder that security, democracy, and human rights are interconnected. If the government doesn’t respect its own citizens, it won’t respect international order, and vice versa”.

📌 “The lives of Mikalai Statkevich, Viktar Babaryka, Masha Kalesnikava and thousands of others now directly depend on the Western reaction to the murder of Alexei Navalny. If it will be limited to “deep condolences”, then we should prepare for more terrible news”.

📌 “We need more cooperation between governments, activists, international organizations and private companies. We need secure communication tools and platforms to amplify our voices. We must all not only realize our power, but also exercise it for good”.

Guide on support initiatives and organizations for Belarusians in Belarus and exile

Feb 14, 2024

According to various estimates, more than half a million people have left Belarus after 2020. Many who remain in the country face the daily risk of being detained and persecuted for a like or repost on social media. If you have faced repression and feel the need to leave the country, know that you are not alone. Contact human rights organizations and inform them of your situation. Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya’s Office compiled a list of its partner initiatives that can help Belarusians.

BYSOL facilitates urgent evacuation from Belarus to other countries, as well as assists in the legalization of stay (obtaining a residence permit) in Lithuania. BYSOL can provide necessary support at all stages of relocation.

You can also contact A Country to Live in Foundation. Its experts offer assistance in evacuation from Belarus, consultations with lawyers, and psychological support.

The Razam Foundation also provides assistance and support to Belarusians who are in exile in Lithuania. Its team assists Belarusians in the legalization of stay and obtaining legal documents, as well as provides advice on employment and other types of assistance. The foundation also works on preserving the Belarusian identity and cultural heritage. The foundation’s Telegram channel shares up-to-date information about events for Belarusians, including foreign language courses. Read more about the foundation’s activities at the link.

For the legalization of stay and other issues related to staying in Poland, you can contact the Belarusian Solidarity Center in Warsaw. It provides consultations and other support. The Legal Aid Department of the Center has helped many Belarusians facing legal difficulties.

At the Belarusian House in Warsaw, experts provide legal advice, psychological assistance, and language courses. Activists support repressed Belarusians and their families.

Belarusians in Poland can also contact the helpline of the volunteer initiative “Partyzanka”. The initiative’s channel shares relevant information on legal issues and has a chatbot for inquiries from Belarusians.

Belarusians who encounter problems in the Czech Republic can contact the Office of Belarus Democratic Forces in the Czech Republic by email: czechia.office@tsikhanouskaya.org. Its team advises Belarusians on migration issues and national legislation and provides instructions on what to do when encountering problems with legal documents. In addition, it shares contacts of Czech partners able to effectively resolve complex situations.

In Germany, Belarusians can seek assistance from the Razam e.V. Association. This initiative also assists Belarusians who have moved to Germany after suffering repression in Belarus. In addition to consultations, it helps Belarusians communicate with official German institutions.

Belarusians who encounter problems in a country with a People’s Embassy of Belarus can seek help from representatives of this initiative. Consultations with People’s Embassies are available via email at help@belarusabroad.org. The initiative, in partnership with Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya’s Office and the United Transitional Cabinet, has launched a website with instructions on obtaining an alien’s travel document in different countries.

Regardless of their country of residence, Belarusians can get legal assistance from the Viasna Human Rights Center which helps people who have suffered from politically motivated persecution. The human rights defenders can be contacted via one of the Telegram chatbots from the list.

Remember that you are not alone. There are people and organizations ready to support you and help you find solutions to the problems you face. Together we are stronger!