Andrei Aliaksandrau and Andrei Bastunets

Analysis shows there have been no visible improvements of Belrusian media freedom during in recent years. The authorities must now act.

One of the greatest chills on the freedom of expression in Belarus is the disappearance, murder, suspicious suicide and impunity against media workers that has demonstrated the very real physical risks that those who practice independent journalism in Belarus face.

Despite the constitutional guarantees and international obligations, Belarusian laws, by-laws and practices of their implementation seriously restrict the media freedom.

The authorities in Belarus tilt the media market toward state-owned players to help cement the government’s hold on power and deny the rise of a truly independent press.

Belarus continues to have one of the most restrictive and hostile media environments in Europe.