Yury Bandazhevsky

Yury Bandazhevsky, Geneva 2009

Yury Bandazhevsky (born January 9, 1957) is a Belarusian scientist and former director of the Institute of Radiobiology in Gomel, Belarus. He is known for his research on the health effects of the Chernobyl disaster and his outspoken criticism of the Belarusian government's handling of the disaster's aftermath.

Early Life and Education

Yury Bandazhevsky was born on January 9, 1957, in Belarus. He graduated from the Grodno State Medical University in 1980, where he later earned his doctorate in medical sciences.

Career

Bandazhevsky's career has been marked by his extensive research on the impact of radioactive contamination on human health, particularly in the wake of the Chernobyl disaster in 1986. He served as the director of the Institute of Radiobiology in Gomel, where he conducted pioneering studies on the effects of cesium-137 on the human body.

Research on Chernobyl Disaster

Bandazhevsky's research focused on the long-term health effects of radioactive contamination, particularly in children. He published numerous studies that highlighted the increased incidence of cardiovascular diseases, genetic mutations, and other health issues in populations exposed to cesium-137.

Imprisonment and Human Rights Advocacy

In 1999, Bandazhevsky was arrested by the Belarusian authorities on charges of bribery, which many international observers believe were politically motivated due to his criticism of the government's handling of the Chernobyl disaster. He was sentenced to eight years in prison but was released in 2005 after significant international pressure from human rights organizations and scientific communities.

Later Work and Recognition

After his release, Bandazhevsky continued his research and advocacy work. He has received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to science and human rights, including recognition from organizations such as Amnesty International and the European Parliament.

Personal Life

Yury Bandazhevsky is married and has children. He continues to live and work in Belarus, where he remains an active voice in the scientific and human rights communities.

See Also

• Chernobyl disaster
• Radiobiology
• Cesium-137
• Human rights in Belarus