Ирина Славникова. Фото: БАЖ
The board of the Belarusian Association of Journalists (BAJ) has appointed the organisation’s Deputy Chair Iryna Slaunikava as Gender Commissioner. The position was introduced under BAJ’s Gender Policy, adopted in September, the organisation reported.
Slaunikava has been a member of the association since 2001 and has served as its deputy chair since 2018. From 2021 to 2025, she was imprisoned in Belarus in connection with her journalistic activities. After her release and forced removal from the country, Slaunikava returned to working in the media.
The Gender Commissioner will coordinate the implementation of BAJ’s Gender Policy, monitor compliance with its provisions and promote the integration of a gender-sensitive approach into the organisation’s work.
Her responsibilities will include participating in the development and review of internal procedures on gender equality and non-discrimination, the prevention of harassment and violence, advising the association’s leadership and members, and organising training and awareness-raising on gender equality and a safe working environment.
In addition, the Gender Commissioner will handle complaints under the established procedures, liaise with external experts and relevant organisations, and prepare proposals to address identified barriers and risks.
BAJ emphasised that the Gender Commissioner must maintain confidentiality, avoid conflicts of interest and act impartially. The association plans to develop and publish procedures and contact channels for reaching the Gender Commissioner in the near future.