Belarus unites people who believe in its future as a free country
2026-10-26
The United Transitional Cabinet of Belarus has decided to honour seven people for their years of service to Belarus, their efforts to preserve Belarusian culture, defend freedom of speech, and support the Belarusian people's aspirations for democracy. The decision was adopted under Resolution No. 31 on 24 October 2026.
The Honour and Dignity Medal is awarded to:
- Ihar Karnei — a Belarusian journalist, political prisoner, and advocate for Belarusian history and culture. He is being honoured for his personal courage in defending freedom of speech and his longstanding contribution to journalism in Belarus.
The Medal for Meritorious Service to Belarus is awarded to:
- Ihar Ivanou — a Belarusian publisher and civic activist who has worked for many years to maintain a Belarusian cultural presence in the United Kingdom and internationally. He is recognised for his longstanding contribution to developing Belarusian projects abroad and promoting Belarusian culture;
- Matthew Kott — a historian and researcher specialising in the Baltic region, recognised for his years of research into Belarusian history and culture and his efforts to promote them internationally;
- Jonathan Schacht Halling Nielsen — a Danish lawyer and civic activist, recognised for his longstanding support for the Belarusian community and his efforts to raise awareness of Belarus around the world;
- Nadzeya Norton — a Belarusian civic activist and researcher, recognised for her longstanding civic, political, and cultural work for Belarus;
- Brian Fitzpatrick — an American politician and U.S. Congressman representing Pennsylvania's 1st Congressional District, recognised for his longstanding support for the Belarusian people's struggle for freedom and democracy;
- Pavel Shautsou — a Belarusian lawyer, civic activist, and philanthropist who has supported Belarusian cultural and civic initiatives in the United Kingdom for decades. He is being honoured for his work to preserve and develop Belarusian cultural heritage.
Each of these awards recognises years of dedication, personal commitment, and belief in Belarus's future. We thank all the recipients for preserving Belarusian culture, standing up for our shared values, and helping ensure that Belarus's voice is heard around the world.
