In her address at the UN Human Rights Council 58, UK Human Rights Ambassador Eleanor Sanders expressed grave concerns about the ongoing human rights violations in Belarus. She referenced the troubling situation of over 1,200 political prisoners facing ill-treatment and denied medical care. Despite over 250 political prisoners being pardoned since July 2024, the climate of repression continues to worsen.
Sanders highlighted the alarming rise of digital surveillance, which severely limits civil society and freedom of expression, both online and offline. The report points out that the regime’s oppression reaches beyond Belarusian territories, with the UK condemning trials in absentia directed at Belarusian nationals.
To address these concerns, the UK imposed sanctions on six individuals and three entities associated with significant human rights abuses and those supporting the Russian military effort in Ukraine. The UK government affirmed its steadfast support for the Belarusian people in their quest for a truly free and democratic society, away from fear and oppression.
During this dialogue, Ambassador Sanders invited experts to share effective ways to show solidarity with those subjected to trials in absentia, emphasising the need for continued international support for the Belarusian people.
The UK’s Human Rights Ambassador, Eleanor Sanders, condemned human rights violations in Belarus at the UN Human Rights Council 58. She highlighted the plight of political prisoners, digital surveillance, and the regime’s reach beyond its borders. New sanctions were imposed targeting human rights violators. The UK reaffirmed its support for the Belarusian people’s rights to freedom and democracy.
The UK’s ongoing commitment to human rights in Belarus highlights the severity of the situation faced by political prisoners and the broader civil society. Despite some progress with pardons, the need for vigilance remains as repression continues. Sanctions have been imposed to penalise and deter further abuses. The call for solidarity underscores the importance of international engagement in supporting Belarusian citizens in their fight for freedom.
Original Source: www.gov.uk
