ICC opens investigation into alleged crimes against humanity by Belarus

Prosecutors at the International Criminal Court (ICC) said they have opened an investigation into whether the Belarusian government committed crimes against humanity linked to the deportation of political opponents.

The case was referred by Lithuania, an ICC member state. While Belarus is not a party to the court, prosecutors said they found a basis for jurisdiction because part of the alleged conduct occurred on Lithuanian territory.

According to the prosecutor’s office, there are reasonable grounds to believe the actions targeted “actual or perceived opponents” of the Belarusian authorities. Prosecutors also said there is a reasonable basis to assess the alleged acts as part of a widespread and systematic attack against civilians.

The Belarusian embassy in the Netherlands did not immediately respond to media requests for comment.

Belarusian opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya welcomed the move, saying it offered hope that accountability and justice could follow for victims.

Source: Reuters (March 12, 2026). This article is a rewritten summary for RuffWire.