"To Feel Silence Without Fear": The Story of Ilya Dubski, Learning to Breathe Free Again

We continue to introduce you to the residents of our shelter. Each story is filled with pain and despair, but also with faith and gratitude.

This time, our questions were answered by Ilya Dubski, a resident of Asipovichy. He endured imprisonment and torture. He was detained on March 16, 2021, and later sentenced to five years of imprisonment under enhanced regime conditions for comments in telegram channels.

During his imprisonment, Ilya was subjected to psychological and physical pressure. The colony administration forced him to remove his tattoo featuring the "Pahonia" coat of arms under threat of "status reduction" and that he would "never be released." Ilya was forced to cut out the tattoo himself with a blade, leaving a large scar on his arm.

On September 11, 2025, Ilya was forcibly transported to Lithuania along with other political prisoners. Now he is safe, in the shelter of the Charitable foundation "A Country to Live in". The young man is gradually returning to normal life.

— What was the first thing you felt when you found yourself free?

The first thing was the sensation of silence — real silence, without fear. It seemed even the air was different. The realization came that I could breathe freely, speak without fear. This feeling is impossible to convey in words.

— What simple thing brought you joy after your release?

A warm shower and the ability to decide for myself what to do, where to go, when to sleep and eat. Simple things that previously seemed ordinary suddenly became a real gift.

— How did you end up in the foundation's shelter? What does it mean to you?

People from the "A Country to Live in" foundation literally took me in immediately. These are the people who supported me during captivity, didn't let me lose spirit and faith in human kindness.
What does it mean to me? I'm not alone, and people are helping me. And that means we're still fighting!

— What things or support turned out to be most important in the first days?

The most important thing is people. Their calmness, patience, kind words and care. When people believe in you and don't judge — it gives strength to endure everything else.
Talking with people, not avoiding light. Learning to trust again and enjoy small things — these are the most important steps.
Time, psychologist support, and simple daily things — walks, conversations, books, full sleep — all this brings back the feeling of normal life.

— Is there something that has become a symbol of freedom for you?

The solidarity of real Belarusians — the readiness to support and help those in need. Even despite danger to themselves. You are incredible!

— What would you like to say to those who help the foundation and support the shelter?

Thank you. You may not always see the result of your help, but for people like me, it means life.
Your participation is true humanity. Perhaps you're saving someone from death, hunger and suffering. Don't stop! This is very important!

— What do you think about, what do you dream about today?

I dream of a world where there's no need to be afraid. I want to return to a FREE, DEMOCRATIC country, to be useful, to live peacefully and freely.

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