
From tech pioneers to ‘extremists’: Belarusian founders face exile and statelessness
In a shocking turn of events, the co-founders of Imaguru, Mike Butcher reports, have been labeled as “extremist” by the KGB in Belarus. The news has left the startup community stunned, as the founders are now facing exile and statelessness.
Imaguru, once a thriving tech hub in Belarus, was shut down by the government due to its commitment to entrepreneurship and innovation. However, this did not stop the founders from continuing their mission. Despite being labeled “extremist,” Marynich remains defiant and refuses to give up on her vision of a free and open society.
The situation is dire, as Marynich’s Belarusian passport has expired, leaving her undocumented and unable to leave Spain or apply for citizenship. She is trapped in a limbo, with no clear path forward.
Source: https://techcrunch.com/2025/05/01/branded-extremists-for-building-startups-belarusian-tech-pioneers-face-a-stateless-life-in-exile/