HRC54 - Interactive dialogue on the interim oral update of the High Commissioner on the situation of human rights in Belarus - EU Statement
United Nations Human Rights Council
54th session
Interactive dialogue on the interim oral update of the High Commissioner on the situation of human rights in Belarus
22 September 2023
EU Statement
Mr. President,
The European Union thanks the High Commissioner for his update.
We strongly condemn the systematic and widespread violations of international human rights law in Belarus, particularly the unlawful deprivation of life and numerous cases of arbitrary deprivation of liberty, torture and other ill-treatment, as well as sexual and gender-based violence. We note that in a recent report, you stated that some of these violations may amount to crimes against humanity.
The EU condemns the recent designation of Viasna Human Rights Centre as an “extremist formation” meaning that anyone working with the organization can be prosecuted. This appalling attack on a human rights organization reflects the authorities’ wider assault on the Belarusian civil society, media, journalists, persons belonging to national minorities, trade unions and broader human rights community.
We are also deeply concerned by the notable increase in the practice of incommunicado detention namely targeting political opposition members and civil society activists. We urge Belarus to immediately and unconditionally release all political prisoners, currently more than 1,500, and others detained on politically motivated charges in Belarus, including members of human rights organizations.
The EU calls on the Belarusian authorities to stop enabling Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine by allowing Russian forces to use its territory. We condemn in the strongest possible terms Russia’s unlawful deportation of Ukrainian children to Belarus and call on Belarus to immediately ensure their safe return.
Furthermore, the EU condemns the recent steps by the Belarusian authorities to stop issuing passports to Belarusians abroad. This is the latest in a series of actions against exiled Belarusians.
The EU continues to condemn attempts to instrumentalize migrants for political purposes, particularly when used as leverage or as part of hybrid destabilizing actions.
We continue to urge Belarus to respect, protect and fulfil human rights in compliance with its obligations under international human rights law and to adhere fully to the principles of democracy and the rule of law.
High Commissioner, could you provide further information on the ability of incommunicado detainees to communicate with their families or lawyers?
Thank you.