Written answers

Tuesday, 20 October 2020

Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade

Foreign Policy

Photo of Neale RichmondNeale Richmond (Dublin Rathdown, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

297. To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the steps Ireland has taken to support the rights of the Belarussian people to access free and fair elections; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31214/20]

Photo of Simon CoveneySimon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The deteriorating human rights situation in Belarus remains deeply troubling and Ireland continues to seek a peaceful solution that is inclusive and democratic. The Belarusian people continue to make a dignified and resilient stand in defence of the principle that they alone have the right to determine their political leaders.

Joint action through the EU and with other partners is the optimal way for Ireland to demonstrate our clear and strong support for and solidarity with the Belarusian people. Ireland is working closely with our EU partners to support the Belarusian people and civil society in their simple and clear call for free and fair elections. Having adopted a sanctions regime against those responsible for falsifying the August Presidential election result and the use of State violence against peaceful protesters, the EU is now engaged in a full review of EU-Belarus relations. A "business as usual" approach is not possible and Ireland fully supports the EU Commission's proposal to re-programme EU funds away from the Belarusian authorities and deliver support more directly to the people. Work is ongoing to implement this task and Ireland is actively contributing at EU-level to realise the proposal.

A national and inclusive dialogue in Belarus is needed to ensure a peaceful and sustainable solution and we continue to support the OSCE offer to visit Minsk and help facilitate talks. As Belarus is a participating Member of the OSCE, we will also continue to encourage upholding of OSCE commitments.

Free and fair elections require an environment in which human rights are respected. We have called for the immediate and unconditional release of those unjustly detained, for an end to the use of State violence, and for the authorities to respect the rights to freedom of assembly, association and media freedoms. Ireland has been strong in highlighting our deep concerns for the human rights situation in Belarus and we will continue to raise our concerns at human rights fora, including during the upcoming Universal Periodic Review at the UN Human Rights Council.

In keeping with the approach being taken by our EU partners, Ireland will also examine what actions we can take to support civil society in Belarus.

Comments

No comments

Log in or join to post a public comment.