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Belarusian Journalist Andrey Hnyot Fights Extradition Battle in Serbia
Belarusian journalist and regime critic Andrey Hnyot finds himself in a legal battle for his life as he remains in exile in Serbia, facing extradition to Belarus. Hnyot, who has been confined to a small apartment in Belgrade while awaiting a court decision, describes his situation as a fight to save his life.
Since participating in protests following Belarus’s disputed 2020 election, Hnyot has been a vocal critic of President Alyaksandr Lukashenka’s regime. As a result, he has faced accusations of tax fraud and a warrant for his arrest issued through Interpol by Belarusian authorities.
Despite appeals from rights groups, the European Union, and journalist organizations, a recent ruling by the Belgrade High Court has upheld the extradition order, sparking international concern. The EU has warned Serbia against extraditing Hnyot, citing political motivations behind the arrest warrant and fears of political repression if he is sent back to Belarus.
The case has highlighted the role of Interpol in issuing warrants based on claims by authoritarian regimes and raised questions about its effectiveness in promoting global law enforcement cooperation. The US Embassy in Belgrade is closely monitoring the situation, while the EU and the US have both refused to recognize Lukashenka’s legitimacy following the 2020 election.
As Hnyot continues to appeal the extradition order and fight for his release, he remains confined to his apartment, communicating with supporters and seeking international assistance. Despite the challenges he faces, Hnyot remains determined to stand up for his beliefs and seek justice in the face of political persecution.
House arrest may be a step up from prison for Hnyot, but he continues to face uncertainty about his future. As he waits for a resolution in his case, he remains hopeful that justice will prevail and that he will ultimately be able to return to his work as a journalist and regime critic in safety.
