Today, on Human Rights Day, an annual awards ceremony took place in Vilnius, where outstanding Belarusian human rights defenders, activists, and journalists were honored for defending human rights.
The Human Rights Defender of the Year award went to Nasta Bazar. The jury recognized Fiodar Pauliuchenka and Dziyana Pinchuk in the Journalist of the Year category. The Human Rights Campaign/Initiative of the Year 2024 award was presented to the BYSOL Solidarity Foundation. Additionally, the jury awarded Ihar Ilyash with the Human Rights Solidarity prize.
Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya: “Today, we thank you for your courage and dedication. Your efforts go beyond defending human rights – they pave the way for all Belarusians to live with dignity and freedom. You find the strength and bravery to continue the struggle even in such challenging circumstances. This award is not just a testament to respect and support but a reminder that your efforts do not go unnoticed. You inspire not only Belarusians but the entire world with your professionalism.
Thank you for your commitment and belief in the future. With our collective efforts, we will build a Belarus where the rule of law is upheld, not just declared. Together, we will certainly build a Belarus we can be proud of. Long Live Belarus!”
