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Human rights defender urges education minister not to make teachers participate in “elections”

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Human rights defender urges education minister not to make teachers participate in “elections”
Tatsiana Raviaka

Tatsiana Raviaka, a representative of Viasna human rights centre, sent an electronic appeal to the minister of education of Belarus.

The human rights activist writes to Mikhail Zhuraukou that teachers are made to take part in rigging results of presidential elections in Belarus. Tatsiana Raviaka posted the text of the letter on Facebook:

“As you know, Mr Zhuraukou, the presidential campaign is currently under way. Let me tell you a story of a teacher from a very good gymnasium in Minsk. She was recalled from holidays because she was included in the initiative group of the current president. I'd like to note that it wasn't her voluntary decision. She must collect 200 signatures.

The only thing she managed to gain is permission not to stand in pickets. She will collect signatures door to door. The teacher has never supported and voted for the current president.

The same teacher was included in the district election commission during the 2010 elections. She voted for Sannikov. She counted a part of a pile of ballots with the vote for that candidate. She counted 70 ballots, but it was written in the final report that Sannikov had only 14 votes. She refused to sign the report, but someone did it for her. She was told that her conduct was also responsibility of the headmaster and deputy headmasters, who may lose their job.

I can tell a story of a former teacher to show what means for a teacher to lose the job. Natallia Illinich, a teacher of the highest category, had worked at a secondary school in Talkau for 26 years until being fired at the beginning of 2011 for participating in the initiative team of one of alternative candidates.

Mr Zhuraukou, I was so happy to learn that you became the minister of education. I appraise your efforts to bring the Belarusian educational system in compliance with European standards and think they are important the future of the country. I am sure the future cannot rely on today's fear and intimidation of teachers. European standards are first of all freedom of thought and pluralism of opinions. The current presidential campaign is the first for you as the minister. Much can depend on your personal position. Do not allow humiliating teachers.

P.S. If you find it necessary, I will acquaint you with the teacher I mentioned if her and her bosses' safety is guaranteed. I can also acquaint you with Natallia Illinich.”

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