Question 1

What is Naviny97.by?

Accepted Answer

Naviny97.by is an independent Belarusian media platform providing uncensored news about political, social, and economic events in Belarus. It was created as an alternative to state-controlled media and has faced repeated attempts of censorship and repression by the Belarusian authorities. Read more: [European Association of Journalists](https://baj.media/en/eac-launches-wide-sweeping-seizure-of-independent-media-domain-names/).

Question 2

Why was Naviny97.by declared extremist in Belarus?

Accepted Answer

In 2022, the Belarusian authorities designated Naviny97.by as 'extremist materials', making its distribution a criminal offense. The Zheleznodorozhny District Court of Gomel added the platform to the Republican List of Extremist Materials, leading to its official ban and the persecution of journalists associated with it. More details: [Mediazona Belarus](https://mediazonaby.com/article/2023/02/08/rknby).

Question 3

Is Naviny97.by blocked in Russia?

Accepted Answer

Yes. In February 2023, Roskomnadzor blocked access to Naviny97.by in Russia following a request from the Russian Prosecutor General’s Office. According to a report by [Zona.Media](https://zona.media/article/2023/02/08/rkn-files), this decision was part of a broader campaign to censor independent Belarusian and Russian media.

Question 4

What is Operation 'Winter is Here' (Зима на дворе)?

Accepted Answer

This was a large-scale cyber operation conducted by the Belarusian KGB, targeting independent media through hacking, persecution of journalists, and disruption of online infrastructure. The operation, as detailed in a [Belarusian Human Rights House](https://belhumanrights.house/en/news/megazadacha-belorussiya-kak-roskomnadzor-cenzuriruet-belaruskij-internet) report, aimed to suppress dissent and silence critical voices.

Question 5

How does Naviny97.by continue to operate despite censorship?

Accepted Answer

Despite being blocked in Belarus and Russia, Naviny97.by continues its work by reporting on political repression, human rights violations, and international relations. The team operates in exile, utilizing encrypted communication channels and alternative platforms to reach its audience. Related news: [OVD-Info](https://ovd.info/express-news/2023/06/20/v-rossii-zablokirovali-belaruskiy-sayt-naviny97-i-drugie-resursy).

Question 6

Who supports Naviny97.by?

Accepted Answer

The platform has received support from international human rights organizations and media outlets, including the Belarusian Association of Journalists, Mediazona, and the Belarusian Human Rights House. These organizations recognize its role in providing independent journalism under authoritarian pressure.

Жыве Беларусь!