Statement by the Belarusian Solidarity Foundation BYSOL regarding the internal investigation following allegations of harassment against co-founder Andrej Stryzhak

BYSOL is an organization committed to supporting those affected by the repressions of the Belarusian regime. We operate with a high level of public accountability and trust. We deeply value this trust and are committed to maintaining openness, transparency, and ethical conduct in all aspects of our work.

The Foundation’s Directorate and team have reviewed the Euroradio publication regarding allegations of harassment against our co-founder, Andrei Strizhak. Such behavior is unacceptable. On behalf of the Foundation, we express our sympathy and support to those affected.

We believe it is important to state the Foundation’s position clearly:

• The organization has an internal anti-discrimination policy that does not tolerate any form of discrimination, harassment, mobbing, or other manifestations of intolerance or xenophobia from the leadership or the team.
• In line with these principles, we launched an internal investigation on July 22, 2025. Based on the findings, a decision will be made regarding the possibility of continued cooperation with Andrei Strizhak.
• A dedicated internal group will be formed to carry out the investigation. We will seek facilitation and consultation from relevant experts. Preliminary results of the investigation will be published on the Foundation’s website no later than September 1, 2025.
• Effective July 22, 2025, Andrei Strizhak has been suspended from his leadership position and from representing the organization during the investigation period.
• The Foundation’s operations are being managed by the Directorate. BYSOL continues to work as usual: we evacuate people from Belarus, provide direct support to victims of repression, political prisoners and their families, and assist civil society initiatives. All areas of activity remain fully operational.

If you have important information that should be considered as part of the investigation, please send it to: [email protected].

Sincerely, The Team of the Belarusian Solidarity Foundation BYSOL