“Amnesty International” Starts Action to Support Belarusian Human Rights Activists

21.10.2003.

On 21 October, the day when the trial of “Viasna” was to have begum, the human rights organization “Amnesty International” has started the action in support of Belarusian human rights activists.

“Amnesty International” expressed its anxiety with the recent liquidation or threats of liquidation to a number of NGOs that were directly or indirectly involved in educational human rights activity. “Amnesty International” believes that these facts demonstrate the increasing trend of intolerance of the Belarusian authorities to the other-mindedness and peaceful opposition. “Amnesty International” is of opinion that the system of official warnings to NGOs together with the bureaucratic registration system and the complicated rules and instructions are aimed against normal functioning of NGOs. Consequently the present system is directed at pressurization of Belarusian human rights activists.

The influential international human rights organization called to solidarity with and support to Belarusian human rights organization, Human Rights Center “Viasna” and Belarusian Helsinki Committee” (received a groundless warning) and “Legal Assistance to Population”, closed by Minsk City Court.

“Amnesty International” believes that the liquidation of human rights organizations contradicts to the international legislation and the human rights norms.

“Take measures!” – is the call of “Amnesty International” to the international community. “Try to urgently file telegrams, faxes and E-mail letters to President of Belarus, Minister of Justice , Head of the Chamber of Representatives of the National Assembly, Prosecutor General, Minster of Foreign Affairs and diplomatic representatives of Belarus in Your countries either in Russian or your native language”.

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