Imprisoned writers (39)

Imprisoned writers – Belarusian writers, translators, and literary researchers, publicists, intellectuals, and those who create and expand culture, protect the word and its masters.

PEN Belarus sees its mission as creating a space for the development of culture, dialogue, and the realization of creator’s potential, protecting the civil and cultural rights and freedoms of the People of Word.

PEN Belarus continues to fight against hate speech and draws international attention to human rights violations in Belarus, including cultural rights. In times of crisis and uncertainty, PEN Belarus responds to the regime’s attempts to divide society by calling for unity and dialogue among the People of Word. Through their activities, they contribute to the realization of the goals of PEN Belarus and share the principles and values of PEN Belarus and the core documents of PEN Belarus and PEN International.

Since 1996, PEN Belarus has been a member of the ″Writers in Prison Committee″ founded in 1960 by the Assembly of Delegates of the PEN International. The necessity of such a committee is explained by the increasing attempts by authorities worldwide to silence writers and journalists by restricting their freedom.

As of 30 June 2025, at least 156 cultural figures, including not less than 38 People of Word, were not free – behind bars or in home confinement. Cultural figures make up about 8% of the total number of political prisoners.

Cultural figures persecuted for political reasons experience harsh and inhumane treatment, are in a state of constant restrictions, pressure, without contact with family and lawyers. Often, relatives have no information for months.