The Human Rights Center “Viasna”

News for 21 Feb 2012

21.02.2012 Vitsebsk trial to be resumed at 2 p.m. 22 February. Siarhei Kavalenka taken to hospital.

The trial of Vitsebsk opposition activist Siarhei Kavalenka facing charges of alleged violation of house arrest restrictions is expected to be resumed at 2 p.m. tomorrow, after the defendant was taken to hospital.

21.02.2012 BelaPAN reporter not allowed attending government-organized seminar in Homel

On 21 February, BelaPAN journalist Alena Hermanovich was not allowed to cover a seminar on the cooperation of the state and businessmen held in Homel on the initiative of local executive authorities.

21.02.2012 Hrodna prosecutor’s office issues warning to independent journalists

Journalists of the Poland-based independent media Viktar Parfionenka (Radio Racyja) and Ales Dzianisau (BelSat TV Channel) have received official warnings by Hrodna Regional Prosecutor’s Office for working in Belarus without MFA’s accreditation.

21.02.2012 Committee to Protect Journalists denounces Lukashenka regime

The Lukashenka regime reinforced its reputation as Europe's most repressive regime for the press last year, the New York-based Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) said in a report released on Tuesday.

21.02.2012 Belarusian Judge Rules Activist's Trial May Proceed Despite Health Concerns

VITSEBSK, Belarus -- A judge in the eastern Belarusian city of Vitsebsk has ruled that Syarhey Kavalenka's health is "satisfactory" and that the trial of the opposition activist can proceed.

21.02.2012 Does Belarusian Code on Administrative Procedures correspond to international legal acts?

Human rights defender Siarhei Ustsinau has addressed the Constitutional Court of Belarus with an appeal demanding to assess the compliance of the Code on Administrative Procedures with the country’s commitments to secure the right to a fair trial.

21.02.2012 2012 International Mother Language Day: Mother tongue instruction and inclusive education

International Mother Language Day was proclaimed by the General Conference of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in November 1999 (30C/62).

21.02.2012 Detentions ahead of Siarhei Kavalenka trial in Vitsebsk

Vitsebsk road police have detained a number of cars heading for the trial of local pro-democratic activist Siarhei Kavalenka, who is currently standing trial on sentence evasion charges.