Over the past four years, more than half a million Belarusians have fled their country due to the authoritarian government's crackdown on political opponents. Many who sought refuge abroad are now facing intimidation and threats, even outside Belarus.
One such case is that of a 28-year-old woman who was detained while crossing the border from Armenia to Georgia. She was informed of an international arrest warrant issued by Belarusian authorities on charges of organizing mass unrest. This incident highlights the ongoing pressure faced by Belarusians living abroad.
Opposition leaders in exile warn that President Alexander Lukashenko is escalating efforts to suppress dissent from abroad, particularly in the lead-up to the upcoming election. The regime is targeting Belarusians overseas to prevent a repeat of the mass protests following the 2020 election.
Reports indicate that Belarusian authorities are initiating criminal cases against dissidents abroad, invalidating their identity documents, and pressuring their relatives back home. The Belarusian diaspora is under surveillance, with the KGB allegedly organizing surveillance and criminal cases based on protests held abroad.
European countries have also been involved in deporting Belarusian activists, raising concerns about their safety. The opposition has established 'people's embassies' in various countries to support Belarusians abroad, but Belarusian authorities have labeled these groups as extremist and punishable by imprisonment.
The situation has led to fears among exiles, especially regarding passport renewals and citizenship for children born abroad. Many returning Belarusians have faced arrests at the border and coerced confessions, highlighting the risks they face.
Despite these challenges, efforts are being made to support Belarusians abroad and hold the Lukashenko regime accountable for its actions. The international community continues to monitor the situation closely to ensure the safety and rights of Belarusians living outside their homeland.
