Information ministry bans more online sources

May 18, BPN. The Ministry of Information has updated the list of banned content on its website, informing the public that several stories by Belsat TV channel were declared “extremist content” by a court in Viciebsk on May 16.

The stories were posted on the channel’s website, YouTube and Odnoklassniki. They included reports on a Belarusian military unit fighting against Russia in Ukraine and criticism of Alaksandr Łukašenka.

Other courts in Belarus have also banned content from various Telegram channels and groups that oppose Łukašenka or promote childfree lifestyles. The Belarusian strongman said in March that childless couples and “non-traditional trends” should be outlawed as they weaken the state.

The crackdown on media and online content has intensified after Łukašenka’s disputed reelection in 2020. He has faced international sanctions and condemnation for his repression of dissent.