HRC47 - Iceland statement - ID w Special Rapporteur on Belarus

Interactive dialogue with Special Rapporteur on Belarus

5 July 2021

Statement by Iceland

Thank you, madam President.

We thank the Special Rapporteur for her report and welcome the readiness of Ms. Marin to assist the High Commissioner in her evidence-gathering and advocacy mission.

We are deeply concerned with the deteriorating situation of human rights in Belarus since the presidential election of last year. The findings of the Special Rapporteur are highly alarming, in particular massive violations, tightening of regulations for civil society organizations operating in Belarus, tightening of regulations pertaining to the freedom of peaceful assembly as well as legislative developments that could further restrict freedom of opinion and expression.

In this regard, we regret that the Government of Belarus has consistently failed to recognize the mandate of the Special Rapporteur and urge the Government to engage constructively with Ms. Marin and her mandate. While we welcome that the Government of Belarus has issued standing invitations to some thematic special procedures to visit Belarus, we appeal to the Government to allow the Special Rapporteur to visit the country in her official capacity.

In conclusion, we would like to ask Ms. Marin how the Government of Belarus could better ensure civil and political rights in education?

I thank you.