BELARUSIAN OSCE OFFICE EXPRESSES CONCERN ABOUT PERSECUTION OF NON-GOVERNMENTAL ORGANIZATIONS

03.09.2003.

The recent situation of the Belarusian non-governmental organizations draw attention of the Minsk OSCE office. The international organization expressed its concern about the way the Belarusian authorities treat NGOs.
Minsk OSCE office observed the trial over Hrodna NGO “Ratusha”. It also paid great attention to the fact of warnings, issued to the number of NGOs, including Belarusian Helsinki Committee and Lew Sapeha Foundation. Court is to consider the liquidation case of Minsk NGO “Legal Assistance to Public”.
Ambassador Heiken addressed the Belarusian Justice Minister Halavanaw, expressing his concern about liquidation of non-governmental organizations in Belarus. Mr. Heiken reminded the Minister about the general position of OSCE towards NGOs, saying OSCE considers NGOs as natural partners in its activities and projects. He also pointed out the need for a cause and effect relationship between an action and its legal consequence. The letter was sent on Monday. The OSCE office expects the official reaction from the Ministry.
RFE/RL
Information Department of the Human Rights Center "Viasna"

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