The European Union strongly condemns the recent surge in repressive measures taken in Belarus against former political prisoners and their relatives. Security forces have conducted raids and searches, arresting over 100 individuals. These actions are part of an ongoing campaign of intimidation and repression against critics and potential political opponents ahead of the upcoming “elections” in February.
Expressing deep concern over the tactics employed, the EU calls on Belarusian authorities to immediately cease further repression and violence against the people. It is essential to adhere to international human rights obligations, including the unconditional release of all arbitrarily detained individuals and an end to abusive prosecutions.
At this critical juncture, the EU emphasizes the importance of transparent, free, and fair elections in the country. The timing of these actions raises serious questions about the commitment to democratic processes. Belarusian citizens must have the right to choose their representatives freely, without fear of intimidation or coercion.
In a show of solidarity, the European Union pledges to continue supporting the aspirations of the Belarusian people for an independent and democratic country. Citizens deserve the fundamental right to be represented by elected leaders through a transparent and fair electoral process.
As tensions escalate in the lead-up to the February elections, the international community closely monitors the situation. The EU urges other nations to condemn the rising repression, emphasizing the need to acknowledge that statements criticizing one country’s actions are made with an awareness that their own actions may be culpable elsewhere.
At this juncture, we find ourselves in a “C’est La Vie” moment, where countries issue condemnatory statements while recognizing their own culpability in various regions. Despite this, the universal aspiration remains that everyone should have the opportunity to live free without oppression.
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