Monday, September 30, 2024 

In the most recent TRUSU Urgent Action Letter, addressed to Lt.-General, Ivan Kubrakou, Minister of the Interior of Belarus; the Union urged for an imprisoned activist to receive the appropriate medical care to aid their declining health. 

“I believe that it is incredibly important that we continue to advocate for people that are facing violations to their protected human rights. Especially those in unsafe situations that are unable to advocate for themselves, like in this case”, says TRUSU Equity Member at Large, Awek Deng. 

Since her imprisonment, Maryia Kalesnikava has endured severe and inhumane conditions. She has been placed in solitary confinement multiple times, subjected to psychological pressure, and denied contact with her family for extended periods. Reports indicate that she has experienced life-threatening health complications, including respiratory issues, but has been deliberately denied adequate medical care. Her conditions in prison have been described as torturous, with prolonged isolation designed to break her spirit and further degrade her physical and mental health. 

In addition to her deteriorating health, Kalesnikava has been subjected to humiliating and degrading treatment by prison authorities, including being held in overcrowded cells with poor ventilation and sanitation. These punitive measures are widely seen as retaliation for her peaceful activism, violating her fundamental human rights under international law. The neglect of her medical needs, coupled with the harsh conditions she faces, highlights the urgency for her to receive immediate, proper medical attention. Without intervention, her life remains at serious risk, and her continued suffering underscores the importance of holding Belarus accountable for its human rights abuses. 

“I am hopeful that Minister Kubrakou will understand the urgency of Kalesnikava’s condition and act accordingly to ensure that she doesn’t fall victim to a system that should ensure the basic needs of all prisoners are met”, says Deng. 

The Union awaits a response from Minister Kubrakou on this urgent matter. 

The Amnesty Urgent Actions Program allows the Union to take action regarding international human rights injustices that matter to students. Click this link to see injustices we have addressed previously, and for further information about this issue or to see a copy of the letter, contact the Equity Coordinator below.