ESU calls for the right of free organising of the independent Belarus’ student organisations and other NGOs
Non-governmental organisations are facing suppression and legal obstacles that are preventing them to carry out the activities in Belarus. Belarusian government, despite the international critique and condemnation of violations of civil rights and freedoms1, acts in an authoritarian way, paralysing free constitution of non-governmental organisations. Democratic and independent student representation is prohibited, and participation in unregistered organisations can lead to imprisonment according to the Criminal law of Belarus. These civil rights violations disable free and democratic student representation that is a crucial part of the fundamental values of the Bologna Process. Members of the European Higher Education Area (EHEA) must address these violations seriously, considering that Belarus became full member of EHEA in 2015. The European Students Union calls on the Belarusian authorities to comply with the commitment made to implement reforms of the Bologna Process, especially to ensure the right to free organising of students and academic staff. Moreover, Belarus should immediately stop the human rights violations and limitation of all freedoms. ESU stands in solidarity with independent student organisations and their right to realise their activities according to their mission and objectives without political influence and suppression.