For exposing the identities of government officials and security officers, Pavel was sentenced to three and a half years in Penal Colony No. 22. Even after being forced to sign a pardon request, the authorities continued to pressure and monitor him upon release. Eventually, Pavel had to flee Belarus.
My name is Pavel, and I am a former political prisoner.
By participating in peaceful rallies and protest marches, I witnessed firsthand the aggression and crimes committed by state authorities and security forces against civilians. Wanting to stop repression and violence, I began actively working to expose the identities of those responsible.
In September 2022, I was detained by officers of the KGB and GUBOPiK and charged with “high treason.” When they discovered that I had initiated the identification of certain security officers, I was interrogated with the use of force, tortured, and subjected to unbearable conditions in detention.
After some time in pre-trial detention, the charges were changed to Article 203-1 of the Criminal Code of Belarus (Illegal actions involving personal data and private information). The court sentenced me to three and a half years in prison. I was sent to Penal Colony No. 22 — one of the harshest colonies in Belarus.
Under those torturous conditions, my health deteriorated severely: I developed serious problems with my teeth, back, joints, and heart.
In November 2024, officers from GUBOPiK came to the colony. During conversations with several prisoners, they insisted that we submit pardon requests. Those who refused were threatened with new criminal charges. I was threatened with solitary confinement (SHIZO), transfer to a cell-type punishment unit (PKT), an extended sentence, and even problems for my relatives.
In November 2024, I was released under what I call a “forced pardon.” But life at home turned into an open-air prison. I lived under constant stress (night inspections, so-called “preventive talks,” and threats of re-arrest), isolation (inability to find employment and lack of understanding from others), and hopelessness (restrictions on leaving the city or country and refusal to issue me a passport).
I felt like I was suffocating and made the decision to flee.
Now I am finally safe abroad. For the first time in a long while, I feel that I can breathe freely. But I have to start my life completely from scratch.
I do not have valid documents yet, I currently have no right to work, and all my savings are gone. I need to pay for at least modest housing, buy food, and complete the legalization process in order to get back on my feet.
I am not giving up and I believe I will manage. But right now, I truly need your support to take this first step toward a new life.
I understand there are many people like me, so I will be deeply grateful for any help.
Fundraising goal
€2500
Funds will cover: temporary housing, restoration of documents and legalization expenses, food and necessities during the legalization period, and medical expenses.