Belarus reportedly building DNA database of dissidents

Reports indicate that Belarusian authorities are covertly building a DNA database targeting dissidents and political prisoners. According to Aleh Ahiejeu, deputy head of the Belarusian Independent Association of Journalists, DNA samples are being collected from political detainees and the relatives of individuals who have fled the country, often through deception, lies, or threats.

One independent journalist reported that investigators collected saliva samples from his parents under the pretext of facilitating identification in the event of his death following politically motivated criminal proceedings against him.

Separately, Aleksey Volkov, chairman of the Belarusian State Committee of Forensic Medical Expertise, announced a legislative initiative that would mandate DNA sampling for all Belarusian citizens. Critics note that the current collection of samples from dissidents occurs without a legal framework, leaving the ultimate purpose and use of the data unclear.