Yesterday in Strasbourg, France, the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe adopted a resolution on Belarus. It was adopted after the plenary session following a report by the Finnish MP, PACE member, Kimmo Kiljunen, a speech by Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, and debates. Read below to find out about the resolution and its key messages.
WHAT IS THIS PACE RESOLUTION?
It is a document expressing the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe’s stance on the situation in Belarus and recommendations for changing the situation.
WHAT DOES THE DOCUMENT STATE?
The resolution condemns the regime’s policies and its crackdown, emphasizing human rights violations in the country – including those associated with opposition to Lukashenka’s and his accomplices’ involvement in Russia’s aggression against Ukraine. The document calls for support for Belarus’ democratic forces and civil society.
WHAT DOES THE RESOLUTION DEMAND?
- A democratic change in Belarus, including through support for free elections and the defense of human rights.
- A proactive approach by the Council of Europe, including more sanctions and support for democratic forces.
- Termination of the Lukashenka regime’s support for Russia in its aggression against Ukraine, as well as accountability for a series of violations, including the hijacking of a plane.
- Stronger support for political prisoners, concern for their situation, and increased pressure on the regime to release political prisoners.
WHAT INTENTIONS DOES THE RESOLUTION DECLARE?
- Support for the rights of the Belarusian people and their aspirations for freedom and independence.
- Backing for efforts to bring the Lukashenka regime accountability for human rights violations.
- Support for democratic forces, including those in exile.
HOW CAN THE RESOLUTION INFLUENCE THE FUTURE OF BELARUS?
Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya invited the Council of Europe to involve future democratic Belarus in its activities.
“I propose the Council of Europe to start developing a roadmap for the accession of future democratic Belarus to the Council of Europe. We can outline the steps and reforms required and start working on them now. Joining the Council of Europe will be our first step on our path to the European Union”, emphasized the Belarusian leader.
