Universal Periodic Review 22 –Belarus

Statement by the Kingdom of the Netherlands

Thank you Mr. President,

The Netherlands thanks Belarus for its report [and for addressing our advance questions].

We have noted with appreciation that Belarus agreed to the re-establishment of the EU-Belarus Human Rights dialogue and we commend Belarus on its readiness to welcome the visit of the EU Special Representative for Human Rights.

The Netherlands recommends Belarus, in accordance with relevant UN General Assembly resolutions, to establish a moratorium on the death penalty as a first step towards its abolition.

The Netherlands recommends Belarus to bring its law on Mass Media in line with International standards on press freedom and to ensure that civil society and human rights defenders can peacefully and without fear of arbitrary arrest exercise their right to freedom of expression, assembly and association, in conformity with the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.

We remain concerned about the state of democracy and human rights in Belarus and the continued repression of citizens and civil society. With presidential elections due in autumn, 2015 will be a key year for Belarus. Freedom of assembly, expression and media are prerequisites for free and fair elections.

Thank you Mr. President

Zoetbrood

2015-05-01

Valeriano De Castro

Ministerie van Buitenlandse Zaken