Belarus Fines Organizer of "Too Small" Bible Discussion Group

The Belorussian Law on Freedom of Conscience and Religion provides that a new religious organization must have at least 20 members over the age of 18 to receive government recognition. BosNewsLife reported yesterday that Valentin Borovik was convicted of violating this law by the Grodno Regional Court after he organized an informal Christian Bible discussion group of less than 20 people. On July 9, Borovik was fined the equivalent of (US) $150, despite his argument that he was not intending to form a new religious group.