Foreign Ministry ignores conclusions by UN HR Committee

Baranavichy human rights activist Siarhei Housha has received a reply to his inquiry lodged with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, urging the officials to provide explanations for the Ministry’s non-compliance with the recommendations of the UN Human Rights Committee of 27 July 2007, ordering the Belarusian authorities to rehabilitate Mr.Housha’s right to the freedom of association, as one of the founders of the Viasna human rights center, closed down by order of court in 2003.
The letter signed by Deputy Minister Mr.Aleinik claims that it is beyond the authority of the Ministry to maintain protection of its citizens’ rights within the territory of the country.
According to Mr.Housha, even if the officials are formally right, they should have indicated the authority with relevant competence to address the issue, as it is provided by the law.
The activist says he is going to address the Ministry of Foreign Affairs with another inquiry to clear up the case.