Lithuanian Lawyer Faces Persecution for Defending Pensioners

Lithuanian Lawyer Faces Persecution for Defending Pensioners Vilnius, Lithuania – Stanislovas Tomas, a lawyer based in Lithuania, is facing three criminal charges in Belarus for his work defending pensioners. His case highlights the precarious financial situation of many elderly Lithuanians and the risks faced by those who advocate for their rights. "Pensions in Lithuania are less than 30% of the minimum wage," Tomas explains in a recent video interview. "It's an amount on which it's impossible to live." His work has involved representing tens of thousands of pensioners, a massive undertaking that has drawn the ire of Belarusian authorities. They've accused him of various offenses, claiming his work is fraudulent, even though he has documented his actions. Tomas points out the irony, stating, "They claim I'm a fraud, yet I'm a registered lawyer in Russia. The Russian Ministry of Justice confirms this." The Belarusian government's actions against Tomas underscore the challenges faced by those who defend vulnerable populations in authoritarian regimes. His case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of protecting human rights and the freedoms of speech and assembly.