New Wave of Youth Intimidation Starts in Belarus. Statement by HRC Viasna

The Human Rights Center Viasna expresses its deep concern in connection with the expansion of political persecution of activists of youth organizations and movements of Belarus.

At present four persons are suspects in a case brought on the activity of an unregistered organization Young Front: Aliaksei Ianusheuski, Zmitser Khvedaruk, Aleh Korban and Anastasiia Palazhanka.

On 13 March Minsk city prosecutor’s office A.Ianusheuski and A.Palazhanka were summonsed for interrogations in the case against Khvedaruk and Korban. The investigators presented to the witnesses notes about finding them suspects in the case as well.

We consider the criminal persecution of Aliaksei Ianusheuski, Zmitser Khvedaruk, Aleh Korban and Anastasiia Palazhanka as solely political and are anxious about the possibility of the increase of the number of suspects in the case.

We again remind that the persecution of public activists under article 193.1 of the Criminal Code is a gross violation of the freedom of association that is guaranteed by the Constitution of Belarus and the Convent on Civil and Political Rights.

Human Rights Center Viasna demands from the authorities to immediately stop the criminal persecution of the youth activists, release all political prisons and abolish all politically motivated articles of the Criminal Code.

Minsk, 13 March 2007