United Nations experts have raised serious concerns about alleged human rights violations occurring at the Navapolatsk Correctional Colony in Belarus. Reports suggest that detainees are subjected to poor conditions and inhumane treatment, sparking alarm among international observers. JURIST has revealed that these violations include prolonged solitary confinement, disciplinary sanctions, and physical punishments, particularly following suicide attempts. Additionally, essential medical care is reportedly withheld from detainees, who are also being denied contact with family members and legal counsel.
Particularly concerning is the categorization of certain individuals as terrorists and extremists without related convictions. This has drawn sharp criticism from international bodies. Among those affected is journalist Ihar Losik, who has been held since 2022 on charges perceived as politically motivated.
Back in 2024, the human rights organization Viasna alerted the international community to the use of solitary isolation, with prisoners being deprived of visits, correspondence, and contact from the outside world. It was also reported that detainees were subjected to freezing conditions without appropriate clothing. An open letter from 18 human rights groups earlier this year warned the UN Human Rights Council of potential human rights violations ongoing at the facility.
Such actions appear to contravene international standards, including both the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman, or Degrading Treatment or Punishment. The UN reiterated Belarus’s obligations under international law to ensure humane detention conditions, provide access to independent medical and psychological care, and conduct robust investigations into all reported incidents of severe harm or death in custody. More details about the conditions and international reactions can also be found in reporting by Human Rights Watch.