Belarus bans 241 books as secret commission tightens literary censorship
Belarusian authorities have banned 241 books, with another 16 titles added in late February. A special commission, meeting regularly to assess publications, enforces these restrictions under strict legal measures.
The commission, made up of psychologists, criminologists, and other experts, meets at least once every two months. Their names remain undisclosed to the public. During each session, they review around 40 books and typically ban about 30 of them.
The restrictions apply not only to new sales but also to books already owned by individuals. Selling, transferring, or even giving away a banned title is now against the law. However, no official records confirm whether the list expanded further in February 2024, leaving the exact number of newly banned books unclear. Authorities have not provided details on how the banned titles are selected or which specific works were added in the latest update.
The ban affects both future sales and existing copies in private hands. Violations of the law can result in penalties for those caught distributing restricted books. The commission continues its work behind closed doors, with no public insight into its decisions.
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