We - Volnyja initiative - help the former political prisoners of Belarus in their resocialization, and in 2 months of work we noticed that the status of a former political prisoner is the easiest way for Volnyja to confirm their history and get help from the initiatives.

Even if a person was not recognized as a political prisoner during his imprisonment, he now has the opportunity to receive it post factum. What is the status of "former political prisoner" and how can it be useful - we tell you.

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As of October 11, 2023, according to the data of the  human rights center Viasna, 1,479 people are recognized as political prisoners in Belarus. Another 1,256 people were recognized as former political prisoners .

No one knows how many people are actually sentenced for political reasons, because only those who (or their relatives) tell and confirm the fact of repression are included in the lists of human rights defenders.

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Why lists of political prisoners?

• So that the repressed people will receive full rehabilitation in the future.
• To testify to the crimes of the "authorities" against the citizens of Belarus.
• That former political prisoners receive quality support and assistance from foundations and civil initiatives.

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Not everyone wants to be put on the lists of political prisoners during a case or imprisonment for various reasons. Therefore, the human rights center Viasna announced the possibility of assigning the status of "former political prisoner" post-faculty.

Yes, the fact of persecution will be officially recorded, and Volnyja will be able to get support.

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How to submit an application to recognize yourself as a former political prisoner?

1. The woman or her relatives should contact the Viasna Center and tell about their case. Attach documents on the case where it is recorded that the person was in prison and for what reason. Contacts: ViasnaSOS , Viasnainfo .
2. Human rights defenders consider the case and decide on granting the status of "former political prisoner".
3. After that, the political prisoner's profile appears on the Viasna website in the section of former political prisoners.

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We can help those who are Volnyja with or without the status of a former political prisoner.

If you or your loved ones need help after being imprisoned for political reasons, contact us .

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