Since the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) in 2015, the human rights situation in Belarus has deteriorated significantly, culminating in mass abuses of unprecedented proportions in response to nation-wide protests after the controversial presidential elections in August 2020. The severe limitations to freedom of expression, association and assembly, which continue from the previous reporting period, have been augmented by widespread police brutality, arbitrary arrests and systemic torture and ill-treatment targeting thousands of individuals.
The authorities also continue to execute death penalty sentences, violate the right to a fair trial, non-discrimination and equality principles. Despite constructive recommendations to address violations and abuses of human rights in the country, Belarus continues to refuse to cooperate with the UN the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Belarus.
The full recommendations list:
Speakers:
Aleh Hulak - Belarusian Helsinki Committee
Valiantsin Stefanovich - Human Rights Center “Viasna”
Volha Siakhovich - Belarus Association of Journalists (BAJ)
Olga Smolianko - Legal Transformation Center (Lawtrend)
Moderated by Ilya Nuzov - FIDH
Translation will be provided in English and Russian.
The event is organised by Human Rights House Foundation (HRHF) and the International Federation for Human Rights (FIDH).