Belarussian Doctors Branded as Foreign Agents After Anti-WHO Protest

Belarussian Doctors Declared 'Foreign Agents' After Anti-WHO Campaign On May 17, 2025, the Belarusian Ministry of Justice declared the Independent Association of Doctors (IAD) as foreign agents. This action followed the IAD's submission of over 36,000 signatures to various authorities in Moscow, protesting a proposed pandemic agreement and advocating for Belarus's withdrawal from the World Health Organization (WHO). The IAD's actions have sparked debate about the limits of free speech and the extent of the WHO's influence in the region. "They call us foreign agents, but we are simply defenders of the people's health and rights," said one member of the IAD in a recent video statement. The video, which has gained traction online, also highlights the restrictions faced by Belarusians during previous lockdowns. Another speaker recounts, "I remember being denied entry to a shop because I didn't have the QR code, or because my mask wasn't on correctly." These personal accounts underscore the broader concerns about the erosion of civil liberties. The IAD's designation as foreign agents raises questions about the Belarusian government's commitment to transparency and the free expression of dissenting opinions. The situation highlights the ongoing tensions between national sovereignty and international health organizations. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting fundamental rights and freedoms in the face of political pressure.