2007 Press Releases

Embassy Statement on Belarus Social March

October 31, 2007
Minsk, Belarus

The U.S. Embassy welcomes the decision of Minsk city authorities to authorize the conduct of the Social March November 4.  The right of citizens to assemble and to freely express their views on key political, economic and social issues of the day is an important part of any democracy.  We urge the Belarusian authorities to permit their citizens to participate unimpeded in this peaceful demonstration without harassment, interference or threats of retribution.  In addition, we urge security forces to continue to exercise restraint in their interaction with demonstrators.

Finally, the Embassy reiterates its concern for the well being of all prisoners currently held on politically motivated charges and calls for their immediate release.