March 6, 2025
The event, “Three Key Figures From The Viasna Human Rights Centre and The Life Charitable Foundation,” hosted by the Baltimore Council on Foreign Affairs, delves into Belarus’s increasingly oppressive political environment under President Alexander Lukashenko. Presenters Alana Gebremariam, Maryna Kasinerava, and Volha Zazulinskaya, key members of Belarusian civil society, shed light on the challenges and human rights violations faced by activists and civilians alike.
The Viasna Human Rights Centre, founded in 1996, plays a central role in supporting Belarusian citizens subjected to arbitrary arrests, especially since the 2020 election protests, which sparked an intensified crackdown. As the Belarusian government targets opposition leaders, journalists, and non-governmental organizations, Viasna has become a lifeline for those impacted by state repression.
Throughout the event, the speakers shared their insights on the enduring resilience of Belarusian civil society, despite harsh repression. They underscored the importance of international attention to prevent Belarus from further isolating itself under authoritarian rule and aligning solely with allies like Russia. This alignment has also affected Belarus’s role in regional security, as it supports Russian interests in the Ukraine conflict.
The presenters argue for a robust international response, urging the global community to pressure Belarus for human rights reforms and to support the country’s civil society efforts. By sharing their experiences and the challenges faced by organizations like Viasna and the Life Charitable Foundation, Gebremariam, Kasinerava, and Zazulinskaya aim to mobilize international solidarity and advocate for a democratic future for Belarus.
