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Anton MotolkoBelarusian photographer, blogger
Date of Birth: 04.06.1988
Country:  Belarus |
Content:
- Education & Early Career
- Activism & Journalism
- "MotolkoPomogi" Project
- Legal Cases & Controversies
- Criminal Prosecution
Education & Early Career
Anton Motolko was born in Minsk, Belarus, and graduated from Gymnasium No. 29 in 2004. He pursued studies at the Belarusian State Academy of Communications and later at the Institute of Entrepreneurship. Motolko worked as a photographer, capturing news stories for major publications at beauty pageants, concerts, and public events. He also collaborated with the internet portal TUT.BY.
Activism & Journalism
In 2011, Motolko was detained during a silent protest in Minsk. In 2015, he received the "Champions of Civil Society" award as "Journalist of the Year." He actively participated in the "Convenient City" electronic appeal portal, initiating petitions against military parades in Minsk and other issues with significant public resonance.
"MotolkoPomogi" Project
In 2016, Motolko established the "MotolkoPomogi" online platform, initially focusing on raising awareness about greening issues in Belarusian cities. However, starting in the summer of 2020, the channel expanded to include coverage of political events.
Legal Cases & Controversies
In 2016, Motolko sued Белтелерадиокомпания (Belteleradiocompany) for using two of his photographs of the northern lights without his consent. The court ruled against Motolko, stating that the photographs were not subject to copyright protection. In 2018, Motolko participated in organizing a celebratory concert for the 100th anniversary of the Belarusian National Republic near the Bolshoi Theater.
Criminal Prosecution
In March 2021, the Investigative Committee in Minsk opened criminal cases against Motolko for "inciting hatred against representatives of the authorities and law enforcement agencies," "creating an extremist formation," and "calling for actions that harm national security." The committee also linked Motolko to "mass riots" and "organization and preparation of actions grossly violating public order." Motolko's Telegram channel was declared extremist by the Partisansky District Court of Minsk, and on March 17, 2022, the Ministry of Internal Affairs designated it as an extremist formation.
