Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya: “Congratulations to Andrzej Poczobut and Mzia Amaglobeli on receiving the Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought!
Andrzej Poczobut is an example of professionalism and courage. He has remained true to his convictions despite pressure and imprisonment. The years behind bars did not break him – they made him even stronger. Andrzej has become a symbol of all Belarusian journalists and citizens who are not afraid to speak the truth.
In recent months, together with our friends in the European Parliament, we campaigned in support of Andrzej’s candidacy. I am deeply grateful to everyone who supported him. This award is an important sign of solidarity with those who are still behind bars – and a message to the authorities that the democratic world sees Belarusians’ striving for freedom and does not ignore injustice.
I also congratulate Mzia Amaglobeli from Georgia – her work deserves great respect. Both laureates show by personal example that freedom of speech and human dignity are values worth fighting for”.
