European Parliament condemns repression in Belarus and demands release of political prisoners

In brief

On 19 September 2024, the European Parliament adopted a resolution on the situation of political prisoners in Belarus. The text strongly condemns the repression of the Lukashenko regime and demands the immediate and unconditional release of all persons detained for political reasons.

Background

Since the fraudulent presidential elections of August 2020, Belarus has been experiencing massive political repression. Thousands of people have been arrested, tortured and sentenced to long prison terms for expressing their opposition to the regime. Human rights organisations estimate that there are currently more than 1,400 political prisoners in Belarus, including journalists, lawyers, activists and ordinary citizens. The European Parliament has already adopted several resolutions on this subject, but the situation continues to deteriorate.

What Parliament decided

In its resolution, the European Parliament:

• Condemns the systematic repression and human rights violations in Belarus.
• Demands the immediate and unconditional release of all political prisoners, including opposition figures such as Viktar Babaryka, Maria Kalesnikava and Siarhei Tsikhanouski.
• Calls on the European Union (EU) to strengthen sanctions against the Belarusian regime, in particular by expanding the list of sanctioned persons and entities.
• Urges the international community not to recognise the legitimacy of Alexander Lukashenko and to support Belarusian civil society.
• Emphasises the importance of supporting independent media and human rights defenders in Belarus.

Vote result

The resolution was adopted by a large majority: 549 votes in favour, 21 against and 37 abstentions. This result shows the massive support of MEPs for the cause of Belarusian political prisoners.

For citizens

This resolution has no direct legal effect, but it sends a strong political signal. It shows that the EU is not turning a blind eye to the abuses of the Belarusian regime. Concretely, it can influence the strengthening of economic and individual sanctions, which could increase pressure on Lukashenko. For European citizens, it is also a reminder that the defence of human rights is an EU priority, even beyond its borders. If you wish to support political prisoners, you can find out more from organisations such as Viasna or Amnesty International.