Belarus Marks Another Crackdown — Journalist Ihor Illiash Sentenced as “Extremist” Over Media Interview

December 05, 2025 – Belarus – 

Belarusian authorities have further tightened their hold on independent media by sentencing journalist Ihor Illiash to “extremist” status — a decision that will prevent him from working or engaging in public discourse and raises grave concerns among press-freedom advocates.

The verdict follows an interview Illiash gave to a Ukrainian media outlet, during which he expressed views the Belarusian government deemed unacceptable. Under the regime’s expanding definitions of “extremism,” even journalistic interviews can now be filed under criminal-style allegations. As a result, Illiash will face severe restrictions on mobility, publication, and communication — effectively cutting him off from professional journalism and public platforms.

Belarus has in recent years escalated its crackdown on dissent, using laws against extremism to silence critics of the government, human rights activists, and independent media. Illiash’s sentencing is the latest example of a pattern in which ordinary reporting is redefined as criminal activity — often without transparent legal process or opportunity for appeal.

Colleagues and international observers warn that this move further erodes any remaining space for the free press in Belarus. With “extremist” status attached, Illiash could be detained under harsher conditions, fined, or stripped of citizenship rights. The broader implication is chilling: journalism is no longer a profession but a perilous act of dissent.

For many independently minded Belarusian journalists, the message is clear — continuing to report is a risk. Rights-monitoring groups say that banning media workers and criminalizing their work under sweeping, vague laws is a grave violation of fundamental freedoms protected under international law. They are calling on Belarusian authorities to reverse the charges and restore the right to free expression.

As Illiash becomes one of many journalists silenced by force, the country’s remaining reporters face a stark choice: fall silent or risk prosecution. The fate of free media in Belarus hangs in the balance.

Reference – 

Belarus Sentences Journalist Ihor Illiash as Extremist Over Ukrainian Media Interview

https://reform.news/en/journalist-ihar-iliyash-added-to-extremist-list