The Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe adopted a resolution for Belarus
The Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe adopted a resolution for Belarus.
The text of the resolution outlines the Parliamentary Assembly's unwavering commitment to championing the rights, freedoms, and safety of the Belarusian people, expressing solidarity with those affected by the Lukashenka regime's actions. It applauds the efforts of Belarusian democratic forces, particularly under Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya's leadership, aiming for a democratic, independent, sovereign, peaceful, and prosperous Belarus within the Council of Europe.
The document critically addresses the deterioration of human rights, democracy, and the rule of law in Belarus after the fraudulent 2020 presidential elections and the regime's participation in the Russian Federation's aggression against Ukraine. It highlights the extensive repression faced by dissenters, resulting in widespread arrests, detentions, and intimidation, including legislative measures to suppress opposition. The Assembly expresses deep concern for political prisoners, advocating for their release and acknowledging the Václav Havel Human Rights Prize awarded to Ales Bialiatski and Maryia Kalesnikava.
The upcoming parliamentary elections in February 2024 are deemed a "travesty of democracy," and the Assembly declares its non-recognition of the results due to curtailed freedoms, dissolved political parties, and restricted media.
Concerns intensify as the Lukashenka regime's actions may amount to crimes against humanity. The text condemns the regime's impunity-seeking measures, such as constitutional amendments providing lifelong immunity for the President and denouncing the Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.
The Lukashenka regime's external threats are highlighted, including the weaponization of migrants, the forced landing of Ryanair Flight FR4978, and involvement in the Russian Federation's aggression against Ukraine. The regime's constitutional changes allowing nuclear weapons deployment and erasure of Belarusian identity pose security threats to neighboring countries.
The document presents a comprehensive set of recommendations urging Belarus to cease support for Russia's aggression, release political prisoners, ensure free and fair elections, and respect human rights. The Assembly calls on Council of Europe member States to support democratic forces, intensify dialogue, and exert diplomatic pressure. It also supports international efforts for accountability and urges cooperation with the International Accountability Platform for Belarus.
The Assembly resolves to actively involve Belarusian democratic forces in its work, appoint a General Rapporteur for a Democratic Belarus, engage with civil society, and coordinate efforts with other parliamentary assemblies. The document concludes by recommending the Committee of Ministers to provide support, visibility, and regular exchanges on the Belarus situation, emphasizing cooperation with international organizations and exploring mechanisms for accountability.
