By criminalizing human rights activity, the authorities create intolerable conditions for practicing this profession. This constitutes a violation of the right to work of human rights defenders as a professional group, particularly the freedom to choose one’s occupation as guaranteed by the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights. Such actions effectively amount to a ban on the profession.At the same time, this form of persecution against organizations operating in exile is part of a pattern of transnational repression. // 14/04/2026 - 13:50
The arbitrary invalidation of passports may be viewed as part of a state policy involving a widespread and systematic attack against the population, as a contextual element of crimes against humanity under the qualification framework of the International Criminal Court in the context of the ongoing investigation into the Lithuania/Belarus situation. // 10/04/2026 - 12:10
Any interaction with the organization (including social media engagement, seeking assistance, or participating in educational activities) may be considered a violation. There is a risk of criminal liability. The law is applied broadly and allows for arbitrary interpretation. If you have interacted with the Belarusian Helsinki Committee, please take steps to ensure your safety. // 6/04/2026 - 14:22
