Jean Asselborn Calls for Democracy in Belarus

On Friday 14 August 2020, Jean Asselborn, Luxembourg's Minister of Foreign and European Affairs, took part in the extraordinary meeting of European Union foreign ministers, which was held by videoconference.

This meeting was called by the EU's High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice-President of the European Commission, Josep Borrell, to allow ministers to address pressing international issues.

The discussion initially focused on the recent escalation of tensions in the eastern Mediterranean. Minister Asselborn expressed his concern at the situation and called for the downward spiral to be stopped without delay. He reiterated that the delimitation of exclusive economic zones can only be done through dialogue and negotiation in good faith, with full respect for international law and in accordance with the principles of good neighbourly relations. "We expect Turkey to refrain from any action that could worsen the situation," said Jean Asselborn.

The ministers then exchanged views on the situation in Belarus, in the light of the violent repression which followed the presidential elections on 9 August in that country. The head of Luxembourg’s diplomacy pointed out that citizens of Belarus should be able to enjoy the same rights as citizens of other European countries. 

Minister Asselborn underlined that "the rule of law, democratic accountability, free and fair elections and the right to demonstrate peacefully are essential to the freedom, stability and security of our societies" and that "respect for these values and principles is vital throughout Europe ”. 

However, the presidential elections of 9 August in Belarus did not take place in accordance with international norms and standards. There was no independent observation, candidates were put under pressure and were jailed. The results are not verifiable and have been clearly falsified. 

“When the people of Belarus, deprived of their voice, took to the streets in response, they faced violent repression and intimidation, bullets and torture. We are witnessing state terrorism in Belarus. This is clearly unacceptable in Europe in the 21st century! The people of Belarus deserve better” said Minister Asselborn, who insisted that Europeans must send a strong and clear message and work together to hold those responsible to account, in order to increase the pressure on the Lukashenko regime.

Minister Asselborn spoke in favour of targeted and effective sanctions: “Sanctions should clearly target those in the regime responsible for the recent violence and human rights violations. At the same time, we must do everything possible to support civil society - including independent journalists, as well as Belarusian students - and to support those who are committed to a democratic Belarus."

At the end of the meeting, ministers took stock of the situation in Lebanon and the support provided by the EU and its member states following the 4 August explosion in Beirut. They also spoke about the situation in Venezuela and the conditions that must be met for the holding of the next legislative elections in that country.