24 August 2020
A statement in support of those protesting in Belarus signed by a number of civil society organisations, including Statewatch.
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We, undersigned civil society organisations, stand in solidarity with the people of Belarus, who bravely continue to protest despite state intimidation and violence.
Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko is using the tactics of dictators through the ages: police violence, censorship and repression. In the last week, members of the opposition, civil society members and journalists have disappeared. Two opposition candidates have fled the country. Journalists have been attacked and detained for doing their job. Ordinary people have been beaten and thousands arrested for exercising their right to protest, and at least two have died.
Despite this violent crackdown from the Belarus Government, the Belarusian people continue to find ways to voice their opposition. Women have formed human chains, workers have come out on strike, motorists have sounded their horns. Despite disruptions to the Internet, they are sharing information and showing the world what is happening.
People of Belarus, we applaud your courage and offer our solidarity. We will continue to share your acts of bravery.
It is time for dictatorship in Belarus to come to an end.
Signed
ARTICLE 19: Global Campaign for Free Expression
Belarus Free Theatre
Index on Censorship
Statewatch
European Federation of Journalists
German naval deployments sit back and watch illegal deportations by the Greek authorities
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