Memorandum of understanding between European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) and Belarusian democratic forces

Preamble

The European Economic and Social Committee (EESC), an EU advisory body representing organised civil society, and the Belarusian democratic forces, representing the democratic aspirations of the Belarusian people, hereinafter referred to collectively as ‘the Parties’,

Recognising their shared values of democracy, human rights and the rule of law,

Acknowledging the importance of supporting Belarusian civil society and independent media,

Condemning the persecution and systemic human rights violations committed by the Lukashenka regime against Belarusian political and civil society activists, as well as against Belarusian society as a whole,

Committed to fostering mutual understanding and enhancing cooperation in areas of common interest, 

Have agreed as follows:

Article 1: Purpose

This Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) sets forth a non-legally binding framework for enhanced cooperation between the Parties with the aim of strengthening links between EU and Belarusian civil society and independent media, and of promoting the participation of Belarusian democratic actors in exile in European civil society networks. It does not create any kind of association between the signatories, does not provide for any exclusivity in cooperation and is not intended to create legal rights or obligations.

Article 2: Areas of Cooperation

The Parties agree to cooperate in the following areas:

• facilitate and strengthen engagement between the EESC, its members and the civil society networks they represent, and Belarusian democratic forces (Office of Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, United Transitional Cabinet, Coordination Council) and civil society organisations operating in exile through institutional dialogue and practical support;
• undertake joint activities to raise awareness about the internal situation in Belarus with regard to human rights violations, including political persecution, the situation of political prisoners, suppression of freedom of speech and assembly, and the deprivation of citizens’ electoral rights;
• promote and support Belarusian independent media representatives and journalists by providing platforms for visibility, cooperation and capacity building;
• co-organise events to promote Belarusian heritage, culture and language in the EU;
• develop and implement joint initiatives aimed at countering disinformation and propaganda, particularly in relation to Belarus and the wider European region;
• promote a vision of a new democratic Belarus and the development and assessment of reforms, and facilitate the exchange of best practices and expertise on transitioning towards democracy.

Article 3: Implementation and Coordination

• Each Party will designate a focal point to coordinate the implementation of this MoU, ensure effective communication and plan upcoming activities.
• The EESC will provide, where possible and in accordance with its internal procedures, access to its premises for the organisation of events and initiatives co-organised with Belarusian civil society organisations.
• The Parties will meet regularly to assess the progress of cooperation and identify further opportunities and new areas for cooperation.

Article 4: Financial Considerations

This MoU does not constitute a legally binding commitment of funds. Any financial or logistical support provided by either Party shall be subject to separate agreements and availability of resources.

Article 5: Duration and Termination

• This MoU shall enter into effect upon signature by both Parties and shall remain valid for a period of three years, renewable by mutual consent.
• Either Party may terminate this MoU by providing written notice one month in advance.

Signed in Brussels on 18 June 2025, in two original copies.