Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 18 May 2021
429. Deputy Neale Richmond asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the status of the work he is carrying out on Belarus; if his Department has engaged with the ambassador regarding the detention of protestors; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26348/21]
View answerIreland remains engaged in international efforts seeking to bring about a peaceful and democratic solution to the crisis in Belarus. Mr. Lukashenko has sought to legalise the severe repression of his regime, which has produced a chilling effect on dissent within the country. Impunity breeds violence and we have been clear in publicly calling for that impunity to end. We continue to work with our international partners to address the situation in Belarus and play an active role in formulating EU policy and responses.
The Belarusian Ambassador resident in London has not at this time been accredited to Ireland and my Department has had no interactions with him.
Ireland fully supports the UN Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Belarus. We regret that the authorities continue to deny her access to the country in her official capacity. It is imperative that human rights violations are transparently and independently investigated. To that end, Ireland played a constructive role in the successful EU-led resolution at the UN Human Rights Council that enhanced the mandate of the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights to investigate over 2,000 reported violations.
We also support other investigative mechanisms such as the International Accountability Platform for Belarus and international criminal investigations under the concept of Universal Jurisdiction. Those responsible for violations and abuses must be brought to justice.
Sanctions are another method through which the international community can bring accountability. The EU is currently readying further restrictive measures against those responsible for implementing and enabling the regime's repression. Ireland fully supports the imposition of a fresh round of sanctions. Pressure must be maintained on the authorities to adhere to their international obligations and commitments.
Our support for the Belarusian people is unwavering and we will continue to do what we can to ensure their human rights and fundamental freedoms are protected.
