Jailed lawyer accused of promoting extremism, sanctions

Investigators accuse the jailed lawyer of complicity in calling for sanctions and promoting extremism.

Investigators said he cooperated with Alaksandra Hierasimenia and Alaksandr Apiejkin, founders of the Belarusian Sports Solidarity Foundation. He allegedly helped them to make public calls to harm the national security of Belarus, in particular, by encouraging sanctions against companies and individuals. 

Danilevič “tried to politicize the sport in Belarus and to prevent the Belarusian athletes’ participation in international competitions,” investigators said.

Authorities also accused the lawyer of intentions to destabilize the economic situation by discrediting Belarusian companies. In particular, they mentioned his correspondence with Yara, an important client of potash giant Belaruskali from Norway. The investigators claim he intentionally distorted the political, economic and social situation in Belarus and openly communicated with resources deemed extremist. 

Danilevič specializes in international commercial arbitration. He remains in custody since May 2021. Human rights groups consider him a political prisoner.