In an increasingly tense environment for religious and political freedoms, Father Henrykh Akalatovich, a Catholic priest from Belarus, received an 11-year sentence in a penal colony.

This conviction for "treason against the state" underscores the constricting atmosphere for religious practices in Belarus, as OSV News reports.

Father Akalatovich, who served as a pastor in the town of Valožyn, was sentenced on Dec. 30. The trial, which began on Nov. 25, took place in a closed court session that did not disclose details of the charges, but resulted in his conviction for treason.

Unrevealed Charges During Closed Session Trial

Akalatovich was initially detained on Nov. 17, 2023, held at a detention center in Minsk, infamously known as “Amerika,” due to its harsh conditions. Since then, his whereabouts and condition remained unclear as the trial progressed behind closed doors.

Speculation points to Akalatovich serving his sentence in the penal colony of Novopolotsk. Reports have surfaced regarding his past medical issues, including heart attacks and cancer, along with recent stomach surgery. However, there has been no updated information regarding his health status during and after his detention.

Belarus, a nation with approximately 9.4 million people, has reported that Catholics make up about one-tenth of its population. The political climate has grown more oppressive, with over 1,287 political prisoners currently detained as of Nov. 11.

Strict Controls Target All Active Groups

The backdrop of Akalatovich's sentencing is a newly signed restrictive law from December 2023, mandating that churches re-register by July. This legal measure contributes to the growing climate of suppression against not only religious groups but other communal organizations.

Felix Corley, a noted observer of religious persecution, explained that authoritarian governments are uncomfortable with any activity they cannot directly control. He noted, “They don’t like it when people gather anywhere… free religious communities.”

Corley stressed that such regimes often impose elaborate obstacles as part of these controls, inherently seeking to dominate and monitor all societal gatherings. He stated, "They really want communities to be ones that they can control."

Archbishop's Departure Highlights Rising Tensions

These developments are taking place as Archbishop Ante Jozic, the Vatican’s envoy to Belarus, departed the country following a farewell Mass on September 15, possibly reflecting increasing diplomatic strains and religious tensions.

Father Akalatovich began his religious service in 1984 after completing studies at the Riga seminary. His experiences have been fraught with difficulties, particularly following Belarus' controversial 2020 elections.

President Alexander Lukashenko, in office since 1994, was declared the winner following the disputed elections on Aug. 9, 2020. This victory intensified scrutiny and opposition, triggering broad demonstrations and protests.

Precarious Health Underlines Imprisonment

The harsh sentence imposed upon Father Akalatovich is especially concerning given his fragile health. His medical history, including a serious heart attack and cancer treatments, has raised alarms about his ability to endure the conditions of imprisonment.

Since his detention, it has been unclear whether he has received adequate medical care. Supporters and members of the international community have voiced concerns about his welfare.

In Belarus, the closing of churches and religious institutions reflects broader strategic measures aimed at quelling dissent. The events surrounding Akalatovich's trial represent more than a judicial proceeding; they signify a severe crack down affecting all society's spheres, including the spiritual.

Belarusian Government Enhances Control

Corley observed that both practical and legal actions observed in recent years were apparent, affecting religious freedom or broader freedoms that influence religious beliefs. These include increasingly restrictive measures, some directly targeting religious practice.

He elaborated further, "we’ve seen both practical measures against religious communities in 2024, all over the region, and also legal measures," emphasizing knowledge borne from broad scrutiny of state-imposed restrictions.

Father Akalatovich’s sentence and subsequent incarceration paint a bleak picture of the current struggle between the Belarusian state and its citizens. At its core, the trial is emblematic of the challenges faced by those advocating for religious and political freedom against a backdrop of authoritarian governance.