What's Happening?
PEN Belarus has launched a new website aimed at highlighting the censorship of literary works in Belarus, where independent work is increasingly branded as extremism. The initiative comes in response to the Belarusian government's crackdown on free expression,
which has resulted in the banning of over 258 books for political or ideological reasons. Additionally, more than 208 authors face publication prohibitions, and five independent publishers have been liquidated in the past five years. The website was introduced during an event hosted by PEN Belarus and the Belarusian Association of Journalists, titled 'Banned People: How Writers and Journalists Work in Belarus, Where Independent Work Is Branded Extremism.' This event provided a platform for authors and journalists to share their experiences under the authoritarian regime. The banned books are categorized into three lists: Extremism Materials, Harmful to National Interest, and an Informal Ban List, which operates outside any legal framework.
Why It's Important?
The launch of this website by PEN Belarus is significant as it sheds light on the severe restrictions on free expression in Belarus. The government's actions not only stifle creativity and intellectual freedom but also pose a threat to the cultural and historical preservation of Belarusian literature. By branding independent work as extremism, the regime effectively silences dissenting voices and limits the public's access to diverse perspectives. This situation has broader implications for international human rights, as it highlights the ongoing struggle for freedom of expression in authoritarian regimes. The initiative by PEN Belarus also serves as a call to action for the international community to support and protect writers and journalists facing persecution.
What's Next?
The International Publishers Association (IPA) is expected to announce its call for nominations for the 2026 IPA Prix Voltaire and the Freedom of Expression Defenders Award. These awards aim to recognize and support individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions to the defense of freedom of expression. The ongoing situation in Belarus may influence the selection of nominees, as the international community continues to monitor and respond to the challenges faced by writers and journalists in the country. Additionally, the new website by PEN Belarus may serve as a resource for advocacy and awareness-raising efforts, potentially leading to increased international pressure on the Belarusian government to reform its policies on censorship and free expression.
