Uploaded October 2024 | Updated September 2026, 3 hours ago

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Political activist Maryia Kalesnikava dared to challenge the repressive Belarus government. On September 7, 2020, Maryia was abducted by the Belarus authorities.

She was taken to the border where she resisted deportation by tearing up her passport. She was detained and later sentenced to 11 years in prison on false charges. Maryia’s family haven’t heard from her for more than a year.

Speaking out is not a crime. Freedom of expression is a human right.