Situation of human rights in Belarus in the run-up to the 2020 presidential election and in its aftermath

Condemnatory

Yes

Analysis

• The resolution condemns “continuing systematic denial of human rights and fundamental freedoms” in Belarus. Serious violations ranging from denial of fundamental freedoms to arbitrary arrest and torture are directly attributed to the government. In addition, the resolution criticizes the government for failing to fulfill its obligation to hold free and fair elections.
• Belarus strongly objected to the resolution calling it a "weapon in the hybrid war against my country," and its ally, China, voted against the resolution.
• Moreover, the resolution was adopted under Item 4, the primary framework for addressing country-specific human rights situations, signaling criticism.

Main Sponsors

European Union

Vote

Yes - 21, No - 5, Abstain - 21, Absent - 0

See Full Vote

Key Praise

None

Key Criticism

• "Expresses deep concern at the further deterioration of the situation of human rights in Belarus in the aftermath of the presidential election held on 9 August 2020…"
• "Condemns in this respect the continuing systematic denial of human rights and fundamental freedoms, including with regard to the holding of more than 1,462 political prisoners and the arbitrary detention and arrest of opposition members, journalists and other media workers…"
• "Expresses continued grave concern at reports of systematic and widespread acts of torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment of, and sexual and gender-based violence against, individuals detained and arrested in Belarus…"
• "Expresses continued serious concern about other ongoing severe politically motivated acts of repression against independent media and civil society…"
• "Expresses once again it's regret that the Belarusian authorities have not fulfilled their obligations with regard to the right of every citizen to vote and to be elected at free, fair and inclusive periodic elections…"
• "Decides to extend, for a period of one year, the mandate of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, with the assistance of the three appointed independent experts and special procedure mandate holders..."