The Association of American Publishers has recognized the resilience and dedication of a Belarusian publishing house in the face of severe governmental oppression. Januškevič Publishing House, now operating from Poland, has been awarded the International Freedom to Publish Award for its unwavering commitment to promoting literature in the Belarusian language.
Founded approximately a decade ago, Januškevič Publishing House has faced significant challenges in its mission to preserve and promote Belarusian culture through literature. Andrej Januškevič, the founder, was arrested in 2022 for selling books in the Belarusian language, which the government, closely allied with Russia, has condemned. This incident highlights the ongoing struggle for freedom of expression in Belarus, a country often referred to as "Europe's last dictatorship."
Belarus, which gained independence from the Soviet Union in 1991, has been under the rule of Alexander Lukashenko since 1994. The country's government has maintained close ties with Russia and is part of the Union State. This political landscape has created a challenging environment for those seeking to preserve and promote Belarusian culture and language.
The Belarusian language, an East Slavic language spoken by approximately 5 million people, has become a symbol of cultural resistance. Despite a literacy rate of nearly 100% in Belarus, the government's stance on the language has made it difficult for publishers like Januškevič to operate freely within the country.
"The Belarusian language illuminates our culture and heritage. We publish it in hopes that it may serve as a beacon, giving comfort to citizens of our homeland, and hope to those who must live in exile."
The award from the Association of American Publishers recognizes the courage of publishers who defend freedom of expression. Previous recipients have included publishers from South Africa, Guatemala, and Venezuela, among other countries. This acknowledgment highlights the global nature of the struggle for free speech and cultural preservation.
Belarus, with a population of about 9.4 million, has a rich literary tradition, boasting notable authors like Nobel laureate Svetlana Alexievich. However, the country has faced international sanctions due to human rights concerns, particularly following the mass protests of 2020-2021 in response to disputed elections.
Despite these challenges, Belarus maintains a strong cultural identity, with a rich folk tradition including crafts and music. The country is also known for its IT sector, particularly in software development, and has a strong tradition in Olympic sports, especially gymnastics and weightlifting.
As Januškevič Publishing House continues its work from Poland, it serves as a reminder of the power of literature to preserve culture and inspire hope, even in the face of adversity. The recognition from the Association of American Publishers not only honors the publisher's efforts but also sheds light on the ongoing struggle for cultural and linguistic freedom in Belarus.