Starting October 5, an updated regulation for the work of inspection and audit services came into effect in Belarus. The Ministry of Transport and Communications approved an instruction that details the rules for using video and audio recording when checking travel documents. Let's see what exactly has changed for passengers and the inspectors themselves.

The key innovation that will affect every passenger is the mandatory notification of the start of recording. Previously, an inspector could simply approach and demand a ticket, but now they must first inform the person that video and audio recording is underway. This makes the inspection procedure more open and reduces the risk of contentious situations.

According to the Ministry of Transport's Order No. 43 dated August 25, 2026, recording during the inspection of travel documents must be continuous. This eliminates the possibility of selective recording, which could distort the picture of an incident.

Furthermore, the document significantly tightens the rules for handling the obtained information. First and foremost, this concerns the protection of passengers' personal data. Access to video recordings and audio files is now permitted only to a strictly limited circle of officials. Outsiders will not be able to obtain these materials.

The document also sets clear storage periods for video and audio materials taken during raids. This is necessary to, on the one hand, ensure an evidentiary basis when needed, and on the other hand, avoid accumulating excessive data and violating citizens' privacy rights.

The new rules are aimed at making the inspectors' work more transparent and their interaction with passengers less conflict‑prone.