Belarusian human rights defender arrested

Norway is concerned about the arrest of the prominent Belarusian human rights defender Ales Bialiatski. “Mr Bialiatski’s arrest gives grounds for serious concern,” commented Norwegian Foreign Minister Jonas Gahr Støre.

 Ales Bialiatski is head of the human rights organisation Viasna. Last Thursday he was arrested on charges of tax evasion. Mr Bialiatski’s home and the Viasna offices were searched, and he could be facing several years in prison. Viasna also collaborates with Norwegian human rights organisations. 

“We know Mr Bialiatski as a fearless defender of fundamental human rights in Belarus,” said Mr Støre. “The persecution of individuals and organisations with completely legitimate operations must be condemned in the strongest terms. I appeal to the Belarusian authorities to respect the country’s international obligations, and to release all political prisoners immediately.”