Volha Brytsikava has been awarded the Human Rights Solidarity Award

On December 10, International Human Rights Day, Volha Brytsikava, former leader of the primary organization of the Belarusian Independent Trade Union at OJSC Naftan, received the Human Rights Solidarity Award. The Belarusian Human Rights Association presented the award to her for her steadfastness, principles, and ongoing defense of workers' rights despite pressure and repression.

Photo by spring96.org

Volha Brytsikava is one of the most well-known political prisoners who suffered for her trade union and social activities. She was detained in August 2023 and tried in April 2024 under Article 130 of the Criminal Code (inciting social hatred). The court sentenced her to three years of imprisonment under general conditions, after which Brytsikava was included in the list of persons involved in extremist activities.

In August 2024, a new closed trial was held, and Volha was sentenced to an additional three years in prison on several counts. Later, the Supreme Court reduced this sentence by one year, but in January 2025, the KGB added her to the so-called “terrorist list.”

At the awards ceremony in Vilnius, journalist and former political prisoner Larysa Shchyrakova, who shared a cell with Brytsikava, remarked:

"Volha is, for me, an absolutely crystal-clear person in the moral sense. She has always held fast to her values and convictions and was willing to sacrifice a great deal for them. Moreover, she supported me incredibly… I hope that she will receive the award in person soon."

The award to Volha Brytsikava is further proof that her struggle and courage are not forgotten, and that international solidarity continues to support those who stand up for human rights, despite threats and prison sentences.

Read in rus and blr