“RADA” included in the list of “Extremist Formations” in Belarus

On September 16, the KGB recognized the organization as an “extremist formation.” The decision also added “RADA’s” website and social media accounts to the list.

The Ministry of Internal Affairs named activists Lizaveta Prakopchik (General Secretary), Katerina Bunina (Communications Secretary), and Marharyta Vorykhava (former Chairwoman of the Council “RADA”) as being involved with the organization.

Article 361-1 of the Criminal Code: “Creation of an Extremist Formation or Participation in It”

Under this article, participation in an “extremist formation” is punishable by up to 6 years of imprisonment, while creating an “extremist formation” may lead to a sentence of up to 10 years.

I am confident that despite all the obstacles, the Youth Council RADA will be able to overcome this challenge and become even stronger. This is a team of experts who dedicate themselves fully to defending democratic values. Democratic youth councils, such as RADA, play a critically important role in our society, including in the political sphere. They serve as a platform for expressing opinions, participating in political dialogue, and shaping the future leaders of the country. Through these organizations, young people gain the opportunity to actively participate in political life, influence decision-making, and defend their civil rights. Labeling such organizations as extremist is an attempt to silence the voice of the youth, dismantle civil society, and establish control over the political life of the country.

Former Chairwoman of the Council “RADA”, representative for youth policy of the United Transitional Cabinet, youth and student policy advisor to Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, Marharyta Vorykhava.

We will continue our work, it will be more dangerous, more difficult, but the youth rights, the voice of the youth will always be our main focus!