In Belarus, clergy members from various religious denominations have been targeted for their involvement in protests against the government following the disputed 2020 election that saw President Alexander Lukashenko secure a sixth term. The crackdown on dissent has intensified, with dozens of clergy being arrested, silenced, or forced into exile.
Recent legislation signed by Lukashenko requires all religious organizations in the country to reregister with authorities, risking being outlawed if their loyalty to the state is questioned. This move has raised concerns among human rights advocates, who fear it will lead to increased repression.
Belarus has seen at least 74 clergy members facing arrests, fines, or deportation in the past three years, even before the implementation of the new law. The government's actions are seen as an attempt to assert control over the church and demonstrate power to the Vatican.
Orthodox Christians constitute the majority of the population in Belarus, with Catholics and Protestants forming smaller percentages. Clergy members from all denominations who supported the protests have faced repercussions, with some being labeled as extremists.
The crackdown has affected not only Catholic and Protestant clergy but also the Belarusian Orthodox Church, which has faced internal divisions following Lukashenko's alignment with Russia during the invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
The new law gives the government extensive powers over religious groups, requiring them to reapply for registration and imposing strict regulations on their activities. Analysts view these restrictions as part of a broader effort to suppress dissent ahead of upcoming elections.
International bodies, including the United Nations, have criticized the law for violating religious freedom obligations. Human rights campaigners warn that the law could further erode civil society in Belarus and push religious groups underground.
Clergy members like Rev. Zmitser Khvedaruk express concerns about the repressive nature of the law, particularly its impact on Protestant churches popular among younger Belarusians. The situation has forced some churches to operate clandestinely or face persecution.
The crackdown on clergy and religious communities in Belarus reflects a broader pattern of human rights violations in the country, drawing condemnation from international organizations and calls for accountability from world leaders.
