Statement of the European Writers’ Council

Brussels, 15th April 2026

 

The European Writers’ Council stands in solidarity with writers in Belarus and with our member organisation. We express our support for the statements of PEN International and the International Publishers Association, which draw attention to the growing repression of independent cultural and intellectual life in Belarus.

Escalating Pressure on Writers, Writers’ Organisations and Free Expression

We are deeply concerned about the escalating pressure on independent voices in Belarus. 

Six Years Since The Rigged Elections

Since the rigged elections in 2020 over the course of the subsequent six years, writers, journalists, publishers, and cultural actors having been subject to increasing repression, including the misuse of criminal law to silence dissent. 

Cultural and educational initiatives, civil society organisations, and media projects working with and for the Belarusian language and identity are being labelled as “extremist formations”. Individuals associated with such initiatives face serious legal risks, including long-term imprisonment.

Books Are Banned

In addition, dozens of books — including historical monographs, works of classical literature, contemporary Belarusian novels, and autofiction — have been included in official lists of “extremist materials”. These publications are effectively banned in Belarus, including restrictions on distribution, postal delivery, and private circulation.

A Pattern of Threats against PEN Belarus, Free Expression and Society

Recent actions against PEN Belarus and several publishing initiatives are part of this broader pattern. According to statements by PEN International and IPA, such designations expose alleged members to prison sentences of up to seven years, while any form of financial support may be punishable by up to five years of imprisonment.

We underline that the targeting of writers and cultural actors is not incidental, but reflects a systematic policy in which free expression, critical thought, and cultural diversity are treated as a threat. The suppression of literature, media, education, and cultural exchange undermines not only fundamental rights, but also the long-term resilience of society.

EWC stands with Belarusian Writers & Cultural actors and Condemns Systematic Targeting

The European Writers’ Council condemns these actions in the strongest terms. We stand with Belarusian writers, publishers, and cultural actors, both within the country and in exile, who continue their work under extremely difficult and often dangerous conditions.

We call on European and International Institutions to:

• closely monitor the situation of writers, publishers, and cultural organisations in Belarus;
• support Belarusian cultural actors and independent initiatives, including those operating in exile;
• uphold and promote freedom of expression, cultural diversity, and linguistic rights as fundamental European values.

 

The erosion of cultural freedom and freedom of expression in Belarus is not an isolated issue. It raises serious concerns for the broader European cultural space and calls for sustained attention and solidarity.

 

PEN International on repressions on PEN Belarus

International Publishers about repressions on Belarus’ writers and PEN Belarus

DW Article on Release of Political Prisoners, Belarus