US Department of State congratulates Viasna on 20th anniversary

"Dear Mr. Byalyatski:

On behalf of the U.S. Department of State, please accept my warm congratulations on the occasion of the twentieth anniversary of Vyasna’s founding.

For two decades, the dedicated staff and volunteers of Vyasna have worked tirelessly and courageously to assist victims of political prosecution, research and monitor the human rights situation in Belarus, and raise awareness about democratic standards and practices in the country. Your daily struggles exemplify what it means to work selflessly on behalf of one’s fellow citizens to promote respect for their universal human rights and fundamental freedoms. That you have undertaken to continue this work every day for the last 20 years is truly inspiring.

The United States supports the vision of a strong, prosperous, and democratic Belarus, and we believe that independent civil society groups such as Vyasna play an important role in realizing these aspirations. We commend Vyasna’s remarkable efforts, and wish you every success as you continue to help build a future that the people of Belarus truly deserve.

Жыве Беларусь!

Robert Berschinski,

Deputy Assistant Secretary
BUREAU OF DEMOCRACY, HUMAN RIGHTS, AND LABOR"