Exploring Safety Concerns For Travelers In Belarus

Is it safe to travel to Belarus? This is a question that has been asked by many, especially in light of recent events. The country has been flagged as unsafe by many governments, but what is the reality on the ground?

Some travellers have reported feeling safe in Belarus, with one person commenting that the people are kind and peaceful and that it is super easy to go to Belarus. However, others have had negative experiences, with reports of extensive questioning at the border, and even being turned away.

There are several factors to consider when assessing the safety of travelling to Belarus. Firstly, the country is currently experiencing political unrest and civil demonstrations, which have resulted in a volatile security environment. This has been heightened by Russia's military presence along the Belarus border with Ukraine, and the arbitrary enforcement of laws by Belarusian authorities. Several countries have imposed sanctions on Belarus due to its role in the conflict.

Secondly, there is a risk of arbitrary enforcement of local laws, with authorities targeting political opposition, journalists, and individuals perceived to be critical of the government. This includes foreigners, who may be placed under surveillance and may face harassment or detention. The Belarusian government also does not recognise dual nationality, which can further complicate matters for foreign travellers.

Thirdly, practical considerations such as limited consular services, restricted flight options, and disruptions to essential services should be taken into account.

So, while some travellers may have had positive experiences in Belarus, the consensus among governments and travel advisories is that it is currently unsafe to travel to the country. Potential travellers are advised to avoid all non-essential travel to Belarus and to follow the instructions of local authorities if they do choose to visit.

Border closures and restrictions

Border crossings with neighbouring countries are sometimes closed with little or no warning. Additional closures of crossing points along Belarus' borders with Lithuania, Poland, Latvia, and Ukraine are possible. Local authorities in Poland and Lithuania have shut down certain border crossings with Belarus due to security concerns. Polish, Lithuanian and Latvian authorities may close additional border crossings with little or no warning. If you intend to travel to Poland from Belarus, you must apply for a humanitarian reasons permit.

If you plan to cross from Belarus into Poland, Lithuania or Latvia, only the following border crossings remain open to cars and buses:

• Šalčininkai /Beniakoni
• Paternieki/Grigorovshchina

If you decide to remain in Belarus, you should be aware of the following:

• Monitor trustworthy news sources to stay informed on the evolving situation
• Ensure that your passport and other travel documents are secure at all times
• Review your personal security plans on a daily basis
• Make sure you have an adequate supply of cash, essential items and medications
• Be prepared to shelter in place
• Expect transportation routes and essential services disruptions
• Communicate your travel plans to family and friends
• Register and update your contact information through the Registration of Canadians Abroad service and encourage other Canadian citizens in Belarus to do so

If you are a dual citizen, you should obtain independent legal advice before travelling to or entering Belarus.

Arbitrary detention

Belarus has been deemed unsafe for travel by many countries, including the US, Canada, and Australia, due to the arbitrary enforcement of local laws and the potential for civil unrest. The risk of detention is high, and consular services are limited.

The Belarusian authorities have been known to arbitrarily detain individuals, including foreign nationals, for alleged affiliations with opposition parties and participation in political demonstrations. The exact number of people detained is unclear, but it is estimated to be in the tens of thousands. US citizens have been arrested near demonstrations, and some have been victims of harassment and mistreatment by officials.

Independent journalists are also at risk of arbitrary detention and sentencing. In October 2022, four journalists from the banned independent media outlet BelaPAN were sentenced to prison terms ranging from four to fourteen years on charges of "creating an extremist formation or leading it," "high treason," "tax evasion," and "organisation and preparation of actions that grossly violate public order." They were also banned from holding certain professional positions for five years and fined. The Observatory for the Protection of Human Rights Defenders considers these charges to be fabricated, claiming that they are part of the Belarusian authorities' efforts to clamp down on freedom of expression.

In addition to journalists, human rights defenders have also been targeted. In July 2021, three prominent human rights defenders from the Human Rights Center Viasna were arbitrarily arrested and remain behind bars on trumped-up charges of "tax evasion." They are being held in appalling conditions, and their families and lawyers are systematically denied communication with them. There are concerns that the Belarusian authorities are dragging out the investigation to fabricate evidence and coerce confessions.

Given the arbitrary enforcement of laws, the targeting of specific groups, and the limited ability of embassies to provide consular assistance, it is strongly advised not to travel to Belarus.

Political demonstrations

The demonstrations have been met with violent persecution by the authorities, with reports of torture, ill-treatment, sexual abuse, and rape of detainees. Human rights organisations have documented hundreds of cases of such abuses, and the United Nations Human Rights Office has cited more than 450 documented cases of torture and ill-treatment.

The protesters have employed various tactics, such as switching positions from one part of a city to another, barricading areas, and throwing slippers and chanting slogans against Lukashenko. The government's response has included the use of tear gas, stun grenades, rubber bullets, water cannons, and batons. There have also been reports of government forces seizing ambulances or using similar vans to deceive protesters.

The political demonstrations have resulted in mass arrests, with tens of thousands of individuals, including foreign nationals, detained for alleged affiliations with opposition parties and participation in protests. The Belarusian authorities have targeted journalists, with reports of intimidation, harassment, violence, and detention.

The protests have led to international sanctions against Belarus and calls for new elections. The European Union, the United Kingdom, Canada, and the United States have imposed sanctions on Belarusian officials, including Lukashenko, and restricted the activities of certain Belarusian companies.

Scrutiny of foreigners

Foreigners travelling to Belarus are subject to increased scrutiny by the authorities and may face surveillance and restrictions on their activities. It is important for foreigners to be aware of the risks and take necessary precautions when visiting or residing in the country. Here are some key considerations regarding the scrutiny of foreigners in Belarus:

• Surveillance and Monitoring: Foreigners may be placed under surveillance by Belarusian security authorities. This includes potential monitoring of hotel rooms, telephones, email communications, and personal possessions. It is advisable for foreigners to be vigilant and cautious about their privacy and personal security.
• Journalists and Media Workers: Foreign journalists and media workers are subject to particular scrutiny and have faced intimidation, harassment, and violence. Local and foreign journalists have been detained, and their equipment has been confiscated. It is important for media workers to be aware of the risks and operate with caution.
• Political Activities and Demonstrations: Foreigners should avoid expressing dissent or making statements critical of the Belarusian government. The authorities have targeted individuals associated with opposition parties and political demonstrations, and bystanders, including foreign nationals, may face the risk of arrest or detention. It is advisable to stay away from political gatherings and protests.
• Border Crossings and Travel Restrictions: Border crossings with neighbouring countries may be closed with little notice. Foreigners should monitor official sources for updates and carefully plan their travel routes. Additionally, authorities may enforce special permits for "protected border zones," and foreigners should be cautious about inadvertently crossing into these restricted areas.
• Dual Nationality: Belarus does not recognize dual nationality. If a person enters Belarus with a Belarusian passport, the authorities will treat them as a Belarusian national, even if they hold dual citizenship. This has significant implications for consular services and travel document renewals. Dual citizens should seek independent legal advice before travelling to or entering Belarus.
• Consular Services: The ability of foreign embassies to provide consular services in Belarus is limited. In the event of an emergency, foreigners may not be able to rely on their respective embassies for assistance. It is crucial for travellers to have contingency plans in place and follow the recommended safety measures provided by their governments.
• Entry Requirements and Visa Regulations: Entry requirements and visa regulations can change frequently. Foreigners should consult official sources and embassies before travelling to Belarus to ensure they meet the necessary requirements. Failure to comply with entry regulations may result in denied entry or other complications.
• Safety and Security: Petty crimes, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, are common, especially in areas frequented by foreigners. Foreigners should be vigilant, particularly when crossing borders and in crowded places. Additionally, there is a risk of terrorism, and targets may include government buildings, transportation hubs, tourist attractions, and other public areas.
• Healthcare and Insurance: The standard of healthcare in Belarus is below that of many developed countries. Foreigners should ensure they have adequate travel insurance that covers medical evacuation and other emergency services. In the event of a serious illness or injury, medical evacuation may be necessary.

Healthcare standards

The standard of healthcare in Belarus is poor when compared to other European countries. The healthcare system is hierarchical and is supervised by the Ministry of Health, which sets priorities, develops policies, and determines services and payment levels. The system is mainly funded by the state through general taxation and out-of-pocket payments. According to the law, all Belarusian citizens and registered residents are entitled to free healthcare from state-funded institutions. However, the quality of healthcare is concentrated in urban areas, leading to an inequality of health services in rural areas.

There are over 830 hospitals in Belarus, with approximately 125,000 beds. There are also many outpatient clinics, rural hospitals, and polyclinics. However, the condition of medical facilities is still below Western standards. Patients often need to provide their own food and cutlery. The country has maintained a system of privileged medical services for senior government officials, who are entitled to use the hospital of the Department of Presidential Affairs.

The standard of healthcare in Belarus has been an issue since the era of Communism, during which the health sector was severely overlooked and medical personnel were incompetently trained. There has been little improvement since the country's independence in 1991, with no significant changes to medical services and facilities. As a result, the distribution of treatment is unequal, and some doctors choose their patients based on factors such as complications, survival rate, and age. For more complex treatments, patients are advised to go to major cities such as Minsk, where specialists are available.

Belarus has a small private medicine sector, mostly consisting of dentistry. Private healthcare is minimal and is only enjoyed by a small minority of employees in the country. However, Belarusian nationals have the option to avail of private health insurance to complement the public health system.

Frequently asked questions