On the clarification of legislation on domestic violence

Violence is one of the global problems of humanity. Both adults and children become victims. Violence is expressed in coercive actions directed at someone. Violence can be encountered anywhere – on the street, at work, at home.

Domestic violence often affects children and women. The legislation of the Republic of Belarus provides for responsibility for inflicting beatings, bodily harm, as well as mental suffering and other violent actions against a close person.

Thus, according to Article 9.1 of the Code of Administrative Offences of the Republic of Belarus, intentional infliction of bodily harm, which did not cause short-term health disorder or insignificant permanent disability, entails a fine of 10 to 30 basic units or administrative arrest.

Infliction of beatings, which did not cause bodily harm, intentional infliction of pain, physical or mental suffering, committed against a close relative or family member, if these actions do not constitute a crime, or violation of a protective order, entails a fine of up to 10 basic units or administrative arrest.

According to Article 9.3 of the Code of Administrative Offences, insult, i.e., intentional humiliation of honour and dignity of a person, expressed in an indecent form, entails a fine of up to 20 basic units.

If violent actions are committed against the victim repeatedly (systematically), or are calculated to cause particularly excruciating pain, mental and physical suffering, the guilty person will be brought to criminal responsibility.

Criminal liability for violent crimes in the sphere of family and domestic relations is provided for by Article 154 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Belarus.

Thus, according to this article, intentional infliction of prolonged pain or torment by methods causing special physical and mental suffering to the victim, or systematic infliction of beatings, which did not result in consequences provided for by Articles 147 and 149 of the Criminal Code, are punishable by arrest or restriction of liberty for up to 3 years, or imprisonment for the same term.

with or without a fine. In the event that torture is committed against a woman who is knowingly pregnant by the perpetrator, or an elderly person, or a minor, or a person in a helpless state or dependent position, or by a person previously convicted of torture, this article of the Criminal Code provides for restriction of liberty for 1 to 3 years with or without a fine, or imprisonment for 1 to 5 years with or without a fine.

Remember, in case of violence against you or your loved ones, the danger to life is extremely high. If you encounter this problem, always seek help from law enforcement agencies, as well as centers for social services for the population, where you can receive psychological assistance and help to understand the situation.

Intern for the position of Assistant to T.V. Lukutin

Prosecutor of Lepel District