The European Parliament, denouncing the “ongoing and long-standing grave violations of human rights and democratic principles in Belarus,” has called on the EU, its member states, and the international community not to recognise the legitimacy of Aliaksandr Lukashenka as president after the 26 January election.
MEPs emphasise that Lukashenka, who has ruled “ruthlessly since 1994,” faces no genuine opposition in this election and reaffirm their stance that his regime is illegitimate, while expressing “unwavering support for the Belarusian people” in their fight for democracy and human rights.
Parliament denounces the upcoming sham presidential election in Belarus.
The EU should refuse to recognise Aliaksandr Lukashenka’s anticipated victory.
Press release: https://t.co/da9Y4HhWd3 pic.twitter.com/WjdSe8xg9s
— European Parliament (@Europarl_EN) January 22, 2025
Citing the Belarusian human rights organisation Viasna, which reports over 1,200 political prisoners, the resolution calls for investigations into human rights abuses and accountability measures through “universal jurisdiction.”
MEPs also condemn Belarus’s “complicity in Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine” and advocate for strengthened EU sanctions against those responsible for repression and Belarus’s support for the war.
Belarusian opposition activists plan to hold protests on election day, including in London, UK, at Whitehall, opposite Downing Street. “We continue to stand for the imprisoned, tortured, and silenced. Until all are free!” the organizers declare.
Demo against the sham election that’s taking place in #Belarus on the 26th of January 2025
When: Sunday, January 26, 12:30-1:30 p.m
Where: London, Whitehall, opposite Downing Street
We continue to go out for the imprisoned, tortured and silenced. Until all are free! pic.twitter.com/N97A839vJ7
— @BelarusInUK (@belarusinuk) January 22, 2025
Source: X/europarl.europa.eu/@Europarl_EN/@belarusinuk
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