News

Migrants and refugees

Belarus and Russia recognize mutual visas of each other: what does it mean

From March 2023, foreign citizens and stateless persons will be able to enter, leave, stay, and transit through the territory of Belarus and Russia on the basis of a visa of one of the two states and identity documents.

What charges are brought against human rights activist Nasta Loika?

Recently, information surfaced about the second article under which the human rights activist Nasta Loika was charged. Migrants and refugees

Human rights defenders in Latvia are being judged for helping transit refugees: why is this a violation of international legal norms

On January 13, it became known about the beginning of a criminal trial against two representatives of the Latvian organization Gribu palīdzēt bēgļiem (English: “I want to help refugees”), who provide assistance to transit refugees on the border between Belarus and Latvia.

Human Constanta’s statement regarding the release of the “Belarus Today” material and accusations of “espionage”

On 20 December 2022, “Belarus Today” published an article under the title “Espionage network under the guise of human rights activists was uncovered by the employees of the Main Directorate for Combating Organized Crime and Corruption of the Ministry of Internal Affairs.” We have something to say. Migrants and refugees

Report on the situation with the refugees and asylum-seekers from the Middle East in Belarus, October 2022

This report is prepared by the human rights organisation Human Constanta, which has been protecting the rights of foreigners and stateless people in Belarus for more than five years.

Nasta Lojka detained for the 3rd time in 2 months

On 28 October 2022, human rights defender Nasta Lojka was detained again. Official reasons for her arrest remain unknown.

Digital direct action in Belarus: hacktivists or vigilantes?

The notions of hacktivism and digital vigilantism – the latter often having a more negative connotation as compared to the former –  pose a challenge in terms of their public perception and legal regulation.

Review of the fight against “extremism” in Belarus in July-September 2022

The review reflects the main trends in the use of "anti-extremist" and "anti-terrorist" laws in Belarus from July to September 2022. We analyze the publications of state media, pro-government Telegram channels, independent media, and human rights organizations.

Nasta Lojka: arrested again, with no access to legal and medical assistance

On 21 September 2021 Belarusian authorities were supposed to release human rights defender Nasta Lojka after having served her 15-day administrative sentence for “petty hooliganism”. However, on the same day she was detained again and once again sentenced to 15 days in jail for “petty hooliganism” under Article 19.1 of the Code of Administrative Offenses.