Belarusian First Deputy Head of President Administration, Maxim Ryzhenkov, has been accused of violating human rights in the country by ordering pro-governmental letters and making athletes, coaches, and sports specialists sign them. As President of the Belarusian Basketball Federation, Ryzhenkov also took preventive measures to ensure that members of the federation did not express condemnation towards violence and repression by the government. These actions have severely violated the right to freedom of opinion and expression granted by international declarations and the Constitution of Belarus.

Ryzhenkov has been placed under sanctions by Estonia and Latvia for his role in undermining democratic processes and institutions in Belarus. Despite this, Ryzhenkov continues to give orders aimed at silencing those who speak out against human rights violations in the country, even authorizing threats, illegal dismissals, and arbitrary administrative detentions. His actions have also violated the right to work and the right to security of person.

The international community continues to condemn the human rights abuses being carried out by the Belarusian government, and individuals like Ryzhenkov who are complicit in these abuses will face consequences for their actions. It is crucial that steps are taken to hold those responsible accountable for their actions and to ensure that individuals are free to express their opinions without fear of retaliation or harm.