United States Mission to the OSCE: Statement on Conviction of Belarusian Human Rights Activist Ales Byalyatski

As delivered by Ambassador Ian Kelly
to the Permanent Council, Vienna
November 24, 2011

Like the European Union, the United States strongly condemns the selective prosecution and conviction of Belarusian human rights activist Ales Byalyatski. 

We again call on the Government of Belarus to release Byalyatski and all political prisoners immediately and unconditionally, remove any barriers to their future participation in public life, and cease its campaign against critics of the government.  The United States, in concert with our European partners, will continue to monitor developments in Belarus and hold accountable those responsible for repression.

Thank you Mr. Chairman.