Immediately and unconditionally release all political opponents, activists and journalists, who were not involved in any violence. Conduct an impartial, credible and objective investigation of circumstances in which these persons were arrested and detained and of al reported cases of torture and ill treatment and bring those responsible to justice. Put an end to all forms of political and administrative pressure and harassment of human rights defenders, journalists and political opponents.
The Belarus government has been accused of serious human rights violations in the aftermath of the December 2010 presidential elections.
ReplyDeleteA report presented to the Human Rights Council accuses the government of violently clamping down on its political opponents as well as torture and denying its citizens basic freedoms.
The report says the country’s judiciary lacks independence as a result of government interference.
It also says defense lawyers are not allowed to freely consult with their clients.
UN Deputy High Commissioner for Human Rights Kyung-wha Kang has outlined some of the recommendations contained in the report.
“Immediately and unconditionally release all political opponents, activists and journalists, who were not involved in any violence. Conduct an impartial, credible and objective investigation of circumstances in which these persons were arrested and detained and of al reported cases of torture and ill treatment and bring those responsible to justice. Put an end to all forms of political and administrative pressure and harassment of human rights defenders, journalists and political opponents.”
The report is calling on the government of Belarus to allow a UN mission into the country in order to objectively assess the human rights situation in the country.