A Belarusian Volunteer from the Kalinouski Polk, Aliaksandr Klachko, Granted Refugee Status in Lithuania

Aliaksandr Klachko had been waiting for this for almost a year. Last December, he even staged a solo picket near the Lithuanian Migration Department. The Belarusian commented on the positive decision by the Lithuanian authorities to “A Country to Live in ” foundation.

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On my way to work, I received a call from the Migration Department informing me that a decision had been made. What kind of decision – I would find out on the spot. I remained calm, prepared for both a positive and a negative outcome. But when I was told that the decision was positive, I felt an expansion of my freedom. Before this, I was free, but only relatively. Now, this feeling became more comprehensive.

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I now have a five-year residence permit, which is automatically renewable.

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This status opens many opportunities for me, starting with something basic — simply being able to leave Lithuania. Before, it was like house arrest but within the country’s borders.

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Additionally, I can now consistently see doctors, including a nephrologist, considering my kidney disease. Finally, I can apply for disability status, pass the necessary commission, obtain Lithuanian driving licenses, and officially register individual or other business activities. For the first time, I feel like a person with full rights.

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Do you think the picket you held a month ago influenced the positive decision?

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I believe that several factors contributed to the positive decision. One of the main strategies was not to bury my head in the sand. I had the right to political asylum, considering my circumstances: a second-degree disability, the need for treatment and rehabilitation. I believe I deserved to receive a positive decision as a priority. Why it wasn’t granted immediately is another question.

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I urge all Belarusians not to be afraid to assert their rights. There’s no need to demand what isn’t yours, but you must defend your own rights. Many people say, ‘I can’t; what if I make things worse?’ But it’s important to voice problems and stand up for your rights.

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I also believe that the negative case of Vasily Veremeychik, which unfortunately happened, played a positive role in my case. Additionally, the support of Belarusians, Lithuanians, and Ukrainians who spoke on my behalf was significant. I am especially grateful to Olga Zazulinskaya, a representative of the United Transition Cabinet for Social Policy, who wrote a letter vouching for me, as well as to the Human Rights Center “Viasna,” which supported me in a difficult moment.

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Of course, my action aimed at attracting media attention also played a crucial role. The interviews I gave helped as well.

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Can your case positively influence other cases of Belarusians seeking refugee status in Lithuania?

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I hope so. There are other Belarusians who need international protection. This is especially important for Belarusian volunteers. Through such cases, Lithuanian society and the government will better understand that Belarusians are not only those who support Lukashenko but also those who fight against Russian occupation and for their country’s future. The Kalinouski Regiment and Belarusian volunteers in Ukraine protect the honor of all Belarusians.

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I also hope that the positive decision in my case will impact all political refugees fighting against Lukashenko’s illegitimate regime and genuinely in need of protection.