Natallia Eismant (also transliterated as Natalya Eismont; born c. 1978) is a Belarusian government official who has served as the Press Secretary to the President of Belarus, Alexander Lukashenko, since December 2014. She is a prominent figure in the Belarusian government apparatus and plays a key role in managing the public image and communications of the long-serving president.
Biography and Career Born in Belarus, Natallia Eismant began her career in media and journalism. Prior to her appointment as Press Secretary, she worked in various capacities within Belarusian state media, including television, where she gained experience in public relations and media management.
In December 2014, she was appointed by President Alexander Lukashenko as his Press Secretary, succeeding Pavel Lyogky. In this high-profile role, Eismant is responsible for:
- Coordinating media coverage of the president's activities, speeches, and public appearances.
- Managing official press conferences and interactions with national and international media.
- Drafting and disseminating official statements and communications from the presidential administration.
- Advising the president on media strategy and public relations.
She is frequently seen accompanying President Lukashenko at official events, both domestically and internationally, and is considered a close confidante and influential member of his inner circle.
International Sanctions Following the disputed 2020 presidential election in Belarus and the subsequent widespread protests and crackdown on dissent, Natallia Eismant was subjected to international sanctions by several countries and blocs due to her alleged involvement in actions undermining democracy and human rights in Belarus.
- In December 2020, the European Union imposed sanctions on Eismant, citing her responsibility for shaping the official narrative on the post-electoral events, particularly "by systematically downplaying and denying the large scale peaceful protests and fabricating allegations against protesters."
- Similar sanctions were subsequently imposed by the United Kingdom, United States, and Canada, referencing her role in supporting the Lukashenko regime and its repressive policies against opposition and civil society.
Personal Life Natallia Eismant is married to Ivan Eismant, who serves as the Chairman of the Belarusian Television and Radio Company (BT), the largest state-owned media organization in Belarus.
References
- Council Decision (CFSP) 2020/1999 of 17 December 2020 amending Decision 2012/642/CFSP concerning restrictive measures against Belarus.
- Reports from official Belarusian state media (e.g., BelTA) regarding her appointment and activities.
- International news reports and analyses from outlets such as Reuters, BBC, Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, detailing her role and the imposition of sanctions.