The European Union condemns in the strongest possible terms the recent wave of repression against former political prisoners remaining in Belarus, as well as relatives of political prisoners. The raids and searches by the regime’s security apparatus affected more than 100 people, many of whom have been arrested.

The Lukashenka regime continues its deplorable tactics of intimidation and repression against its critics and potential political opponents ahead of the “elections” in February.  

We urge Belarus’ authorities to refrain from any further repression and violence directed against the Belarusian people, and to comply with Belarus’ international human rights obligations, including by releasing immediately and unconditionally all those arbitrarily detained and ceasing abusive prosecutions.

The EU stands in solidarity with the people of Belarus and will continue to support them on their way to an independent and democratic country. Belarusian citizens deserve the right to be represented by those they freely choose through transparent, free and fair elections.