Interactive Dialogue with OHCHR on the Situation of Human Rights in Belarus
Human Rights Council – 48th Session
Statement by the Delegation of the United States of America
As delivered by Charge d’Affaires Benjamin Moeling
The United States is deeply concerned by the suppression of independent political opinion in Belarus and by the Lukashenka regime’s escalation of violent tactics to crush the Belarusian people’s democratic aspirations.
In particular, we are concerned by the growing number of politically motivated trials and the severe sentences that have followed. The regime now reportedly holds over 650 political prisoners.
The regime’s intensifying crackdown on civil society and independent media, including raiding media outlets, NGOs, and homes, is completely unacceptable — as is the detention of individuals simply for exercising their rights to freedom of expression, online and offline, and for peaceful assembly.
The regime punishes its citizens even for wearing red and white clothing, pushing repression to absurd levels.
We will always stand with Belarusians as they peacefully demand respect for their human rights and fundamental freedoms.
Our question is this: What will it take for the regime to release all political prisoners, participate in a genuine dialogue, and hold free and fair elections?
Thank You.