Igor* was prosecuted for passing information about the movement of military equipment to the “Belarusian Hajun” project. After being released from custody, he left Belarus and is asking for help with retraining.
After Russia launched its full-scale war against Ukraine, I passed information to the “Belarusian Hajun” project about the movement of military equipment. I understood what this could mean for me, but at that moment I could not do otherwise.
I had planned to leave Belarus later. But I didn’t make it – I was detained.
I spent several months in a remand centre. It was there that I finally decided: if I got the opportunity to be released, I would leave the country. The court sentenced me to several years of restriction of liberty with placement in an open correctional facility (“confinement in an open correctional facility”). After being released from custody, I left Belarus.
My problems with law enforcers began long before that. After the 2020 election, I took part in peaceful protests. In the first days of the protests, on my way home, I was beaten by police officers – I still have medical documentation confirming the injuries I sustained.
Despite this, I continued taking part in peaceful marches and, as much as I could, helped people who had faced the consequences of repression. Once, law enforcers came to my home, but I was not there. Later, I was also summoned to the KGB because of donations I had made, after which I had to pay a fine.
I am now in Poland and trying to rebuild the life I had to leave behind in Belarus.
Before my detention, I spent several years developing my skills in digital design, 3D modelling, and modern manufacturing technologies. I taught myself professional tools, worked on projects, and gradually delved deeper into creating physical objects. I planned to make this field my profession, but my detention, months in a remand centre, and forced departure interrupted this path.
Now I have an opportunity to return to it. I am continuing my studies, working on my own project, learning new tools, and consolidating skills that I will later be able to use professionally.
Another foundation has already covered part of the cost of my training. But not all of it. I need to cover the remaining expenses myself. In addition, while I am studying and looking for work, I need to pay for housing.
I will be grateful for any contribution and for sharing this fundraiser. Your support will help me get through this final stage and return to an independent professional life.
*This is an anonymous story. For security reasons, we have changed the hero's name and concealed some details.
Fundraising goal
€2200
€1200 – training-related expenses
€1000 – housing costs during training and the job search