In a resolution approved on Wednesday, the European Parliament firmly condemns the repression in Belarus and expresses solidarity with opponents of the Lukashenka regime. MEPs demand the immediate release of all political prisoners and call for compensation and the restoration of their rights. They also deplore the misuse of judicial and law enforcement systems by the authorities to violate human rights.
Lukashenka is not a legitimate president
Parliament does not recognise Aliaksandr Lukashenka as Belarus’s legitimate president, and MEPs reaffirm their support for Belarusian democratic forces led by Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya. There is widespread evidence and numerous testimonies indicating that she was the legitimate winner of the 2020 presidential election while the Lukashenka regime unlawfully clung to power, say MEPs.They urge the EU to ensure political, financial, and security support for the opposition and to cooperate with other countries to join the non-recognition policy. MEPs want the EU and international organisations to formalise the representation of the Belarusian democratic forces in international forums such as the parliamentary assemblies of the Council of Europe, OSCE and NATO.
MEPs call for new, free and fair elections under international observation, highlighting that any vote held amid repression cannot meet democratic standards. They warn against Lukashenka’s use of political prisoners as leverage in negotiations with the West, noting also that each time prisoners have been released, others have subsequently been detained.
Support for Belarusian civil society and investigation of human rights abuses
MEPs advocate supporting Belarusian civil society, independent media, students and exiled professionals through visas, scholarships, grants, and protective measures. They condemn attacks against independent media, the restriction of internet access, and the arrest of journalists . The EU should provide independent media with systemic and multi-year assistance, including funding, they add.
The resolution demands urgent measures to counter transnational repression by the Belarusian regime, including misuse of Interpol and protection for exiled Belarusians. The EU and its member states should continue investigating human rights abuses and crimes against humanity in Belarus, and support measures to hold perpetrators accountable, including through international courts.
Involvement in Russia’s war against Ukraine
MEPs strongly condemn the Lukashenka regime’s involvement in Russia’s war against Ukraine and are concerned about Russia’s expanding military presence in Belarus, warning that the deployment of nuclear-capable systems undermines European security. They urge the EU to strengthen sanctions targeting those responsible for repression, complicity in the war and the evasion of sanctions.
Parliament calls for thorough investigations and the dismantling of Belarusian and Russian spy networks within the EU and the candidate countries and stresses the need to impose restrictions on Russian and Belarusian diplomats in the Schengen area.
The resolution was adopted by 458 votes in favour, 18 against, and 84 abstentions.
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