Delegation of European parliament supports economic sanctions against Lukashenka

MEPs demand the authorities to release political prisoners, recognize the Union of Poles, respect human rights and hold free election.

Sanctions against Belarus are a final decision, but they are to be considered in a situation when Belarusian authorities are to continue violating democratic standards, reads the report which sums up the recent visit of the European Parliament’s delegation to Minsk, Polish Radio external Service informs.

The members of the European parliament demand authorities in Minsk to recognize the Union of Poles headed by Andzelika Borys, to agree to activities of organisations which defend human rights, and to release political prisoners. Besides, they demand official authorities to guarantee legal procedure of elections to local councils.

The head of the EP delegation for relations with Belarus Jacek Protasiewicz believes that any assistance, economic and financial, should depend on fulfillment of the abovementioned conditions by Minsk.

“After all, if the Belarusian authorities cannot be persuaded by arguments, a final argument in the form of sanctions should be used possibly. Economic restrictions would be most painful, as Belarusian authorities need money. They are also interested in new loans and export of milk products. They also have their interests in the West,” the deputy said.

Up till now the European community withheld from a decision on sanctions, explaining that they would primarily affect the society, and not the Belarusian authorities. So formerly possible imposing of diplomatic sanctions was considered, in particular, a ban on entering the EU countries for representatives of Lukashenka’s regime.

In its turn, the draft report which was read out yesterday is to be passed by leaders of the largest political factions of the European parliament next week, and later is to become a foundation for preparation of the resolution.