Interactive dialogue on the interim oral update of the High Commissioner on the situation of human rights in Belarus

Interactive Dialogue on the interim oral update of the High Commissioner on the situation of human rights in Belarus at the 51st session of the United Nations Human Rights Council, 23 September 2022. Statement by Finland Delivered by Ambassador Kirsti Kauppi, Permanent Representative of Finland.

Finland aligns itself with the EU statement.

The human rights situation in Belarus continues to deteriorate. The number of political prisoners is now more than 1 300. There is a person behind every number. There are children among those arbitrarily detained. The government of Belarus and authorities must immediately and unconditionally release all political prisoners, including minors.

We share the concern of the OHCHR on the shrinking civic space. The crucial work of human rights defenders, NGO’s and media is hampered by systematic repression. Restrictive laws must be revoked. We are alarmed by recent verdicts against human rights defenders in a trial behind closed doors. Finland applauds those working in extremely difficult conditions. 

We strongly condemn the involvement of Belarus in Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine and the human rights violations against the Ukrainian people.

 

Chairperson,

How could this Council effectively use the information we have to enhance accountability on the human rights violations in Belarus?

Thank you.