Belarus: People need a safe way out now
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People in Belarus risk arrest for speaking publicly about their lives. Demand visas and safe pathways before it is too late.

A teacher answers a question. A journalist reports on a Pride march. A friend shares a message online.

In Belarus, these actions now lead to punishment.

On April 15, 2026, Alexander Lukashenko signed a law that penalizes “disseminating information” that presents same-sex relationships or gender transition as acceptable. It applies to public speech, media, education, and everyday expression.

Penalties include fines, compulsory labor, or short-term detention. The law gives authorities broad power to restrict what people can say in public.

This affects everyone.

It restricts freedom of expression – the right to speak, share information, and take part in public life. For LGBT+ people and those who support them, the impact is immediate. Public visibility disappears. Fear grows.

Many are already trying to leave. Civil society organizations are already reporting hundreds of requests from LGBT+ individuals seeking assistance to move abroad, indicating an urgent need for protection.

In this context, access to visas and travel documents can be a lifeline.

Similar laws in Russia have led to raids, censorship, and people being forced into hiding or leaving the country. 

Similar laws have since appeared in other countries –  including Georgia, Hungary, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan – spreading the same pattern of censorship and fear.

Now, this approach is being replicated in Belarus.

Governments that have committed to human rights have a responsibility to act. Expanding access to visas and safe pathways is a concrete way to protect people at risk.

Acting now can help offer a way out for those already at risk.

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Goal: 1,000

To Ministries of Foreign Affairs of EU member states; UN High Commissioner for Human Rights; European Commission; European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations (ECHO):

We are concerned about the law recently approved in Belarus that punishes people for speaking publicly about same-sex relationships, gender transition, and related topics.

Under the law’s wording, individuals can be penalized for “disseminating information in any form” that presents these subjects as acceptable. This includes public events, educational content, media reporting, and online expression. The law also places these topics alongside pedophilia, increasing stigma and risk.

While framed as an administrative offense, the law allows for fines, compulsory labor, and detention of up to 15 days. It grants authorities broad discretion to restrict public expression.

These measures violate the fundamental human right to freedom of expression. 

Experience from similar legislation in Russia demonstrates the likely consequences. Such laws have been used to shut down organizations, raid events, censor media, and silence public discussion. Many individuals have been forced into hiding or have had to leave the country to ensure their safety.

There is a clear risk that the same pattern will unfold in Belarus.

Civil society organizations are already reporting hundreds of requests from LGBT+ individuals seeking assistance to move abroad, indicating an urgent need for protection.

We urge you to:

– Expand access to humanitarian visas, emergency travel documents, and safe relocation pathways for individuals at risk in Belarus

– Ensure that LGBT+ people and human rights defenders can obtain visas without unnecessary barriers or delays

– Support organizations providing legal, psychological, and humanitarian assistance

– Raise this issue in international forums and call on Belarusian authorities to uphold their human rights obligations

Providing access to visas and safe pathways is a practical and immediate way to protect people facing harm. It ensures that those at risk are not left without options.

States that are committed to human rights have a responsibility to act when individuals face persecution for exercising their basic freedoms.

Campaign started by TG House
0people have signed
Goal: 1,000
Campaign started by TG House

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