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Belarus is using the justice system to suppress critics of Lukashenko — UN experts

In Belarus, the justice system is being used to suppress critics of Alexander Lukashenko — UN experts

Belarusian state structures have been acting in a coordinated manner since 2020 to squeeze out those who criticize the government of President Alexander Lukashenko. A report by UN experts published on September 15 notes that the system is attempting to "silence" people through imprisonment, trials, and surveillance.

This report will be presented to the Human Rights Council this week. It states that the courts, police, security services, prosecution, and prison administrations are working together. They are suppressing individuals who oppose the government or are suspected of doing so.

The report shows systematic violations of international human rights. It is noted that the violations continue from the stage of arrest, through the period of imprisonment, and up to post-release supervision. It is also stated that these violations have not stopped to this day. The experts listed, among others, the following situations: arbitrary detentions and torture; closed court hearings and deprivation of access to legal counsel; and the constant harassment of former prisoners.

The judicial system plays a central role in giving these violations a semblance of legality. The experts said that certain events that have occurred since May 2020 could be assessed as crimes against humanity.

The document was released following the mass protests that began after the August 2020 presidential election. Both the opposition and Western countries consider the election results to have been rigged. Thousands of people were detained at that time.

Alexander Lukashenko denies the existence of political prisoners. The head of state refers to them as "bandits." He has also denied that the presidential election was rigged. According to him, the authorities took legal measures to restore order.

Nevertheless, "the repression machine continues to work" and new political prisoners are appearing.

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