Belarus decries removal of state media content from YouTube as violation of media freedom

April 6, Pozirk. Belarus’ foreign ministry has denounced the removal of state media content from YouTube as a violation of media freedom.

Minsk described the affected propaganda outlets, BelTA, ONT and STV, as the foundation of the country’s information sovereignty.

It also accused international media freedom organizations of turning a blind eye to the issue.

The content has been unavailable since April 3. YouTube has not yet provided any explanations.

The Belarusian government has branded most of the country’s independent media outlets “extremist organizations,” banished their editorial staffs from Belarus and banned their content for distribution in the country.