We provide support to people who have survived torture and ill-treatment, combining psychological assistance, restorative recreational formats, and legal support, including migration and regularization issues.
If you need support, you can contact us at contact@torturesbelarus2020.org or via Telegram.
Psychological support for survivors
We organize in-person psychological support groups in Vilnius and Warsaw for people who have experienced torture and ill-treatment. We also run online groups, allowing survivors from different countries to participate.
The groups focus on reducing the consequences of psychological trauma, restoring a sense of safety, developing self-regulation skills, and building mutual support. Each group includes 5–7 participants, ensuring a safe atmosphere and the possibility of individual attention. All participants are documented by the Committee, which allows for systematic follow-up and the use of anonymized data in human rights and analytical work.
Recreational and restorative activities
We organize non–trauma-focused activities, creating a safe space for emotional recovery, stress reduction, and strengthening social connections.
In 2025, we organized several creative and culinary workshops aimed at reducing stress and supporting emotional recovery. A ceramics workshop allowed participants to create their own mugs or plates, with many noting that working with clay helped them relax and gain a positive emotional experience.
We also held a workshop on weaving “horliachki,” traditional Belarusian necklaces. In addition to the practical component, participants learned about the cultural and historical background of the craft and connected in a calm and supportive environment.
Additionally, we organized a Lithuanian cuisine cooking workshop. Cooking together helped reduce tension, build trust, and create an informal space for communication and mutual support.
We conduct three-day retreats for documented survivors. These retreats focus on restoring psychological and physical well-being for individuals experiencing prolonged stress due to repression, forced migration, and adaptation to a new country. A psychologist experienced in working with torture survivors facilitates the program, which includes body-based practices, psychoeducation, individual consultations, and rest in a safe and supportive environment.
Legal and migration support
We provide individual legal consultations to survivors of torture and ill-treatment. Support includes assistance with cases under universal jurisdiction, submissions to international human rights mechanisms, and preparation of legal complaints and procedural documents.
A separate area of work is migration-related assistance. We advise on procedures for obtaining international protection, refugee status, or humanitarian residence permits, assist with document preparation, communication with migration authorities, and explain rights in host countries. This support reduces uncertainty, strengthens a sense of safety, and promotes social integration.