OREANDA-NEWS. The German government has allocated about 2.9 million euros to support Belarusian journalists who are being persecuted for political reasons. This is stated in the response of the State Secretary in the German Foreign Ministry, Miguel Berger to the request of the expert on Eastern Europe of the Green faction in the Bundestag, Manuel Sarrazin, reported on Friday, June 4, the media «Redaktionsnetzwerk Deutschland».

These funds should be used to provide legal assistance to detained and accused journalists, as well as, possibly, to replace damaged equipment or software. The publication indicates that financial assistance this year is also planned for independent media in Belarus and abroad.

«The wave of harsh repressions against independent journalists in Belarus does not stop», said Manuel Sarrazin, stressing the importance of Berlin's support for independent Belarusian media both in the country and in exile. According to him, in many cases, direct and quick assistance plays a crucial role.

The regime of Alexander Lukashenko takes tough measures against journalists. So, in May, searches were carried out in the premises of the largest independent Belarusian portal Tut.by, the media itself was blocked, 15 people were detained, the editor-in-chief and one journalist were placed in custody.