Appeal: Freedom for the prisoners in Belarus

Moved by deep concern we issue this urgent appeal to the President of the Republic of Belarus, Alexander Lukashenko.

Release all those detained after the presidential elections on 19 December in Belarus immediately and without any preconditions. Their imprisonment is a serious violation of fundamental human rights, above all the freedom of speech and assembly and the right to a fair trial.

We also demand as a humanitarian gesture that you allow doctors, lawyers and relatives to see the prisoners. We are extremely concerned about the health of the prisoners and fear for their lives.

We are not alone. Other appeals from all over the world are being made to you by many people, groups and civil society organisations, parliaments and governments as well as by the European Union and the United Nations.

This is an appeal in the name of freedom, democracy and human rights, which are universal and indivisible. It is also an appeal in the name of humanity.

Release the prisoners.