RFE/RL journalist Hruzdzilovič awarded Lithuania’s Hope of Freedom prize

December 1, BPN. Radio Svaboda journalist Aleh Hruzdzilovič has received Lithuanian Hope of Freedom award established by MP Kazys Starkevičius and the Lithuanian journalistic community.

Hruzdzilovič was celebrated for his journalistic work and contribution to freedom of speech.

The award ceremony took place at a forum on free media co-hosted by the Lithuanian Seimas, Belarusian and Lithuanian associations of journalists.

Belarusian authorities pardoned Hruzdzilovič after he had spent almost nine months in custody out of his 18-month prison sentence over his alleged participation in protests. The journalist pleaded not guilty to the charge. Human rights groups condemned his sentence as politically motivated.