EU Reacts To Scandalous Lukashenka’s Decree

Peter Stano, European Commission's Lead Spokesperson for Foreign Affairs made a statement.

The European Union will study the consequences of the decree banning the issuance of passports to Belarusians abroad. But such a law once again shows the total disrespect by the Belarusian regime towards its citizens’ fundamental rights. Lead Spokesperson for EU Foreign Affairs Peter Stano made this statement at a press conference in Brussels on September 7.

“I can only say that this, unfortunately, is another decision in a series of actions taken by the illegitimate regime against Belarusians who were forced to flee abroad because of the persecution and repression they faced in Belarus,” Mr Stano said.

In his opinion, this is another attempt by the Belarusian authorities to force the citizens of Belarus to return to their homeland so that they again face repression and persecution. Such a decree once again shows a complete disregard for the rights of Belarusians.

“The European Union strongly condemns this decision, we will continue to stand by the Belarusian people in their quest for democracy. As for the decree, as I understand it, it comes into force today. We need to see what practical implications it brings for the Belarusian citizens in the EU territory,” he said.

Recall that Aliaksandr Lukashenka's decree officially came into force on September 7. According to it, the Belarusian diplomatic missions will no longer issue passports and draw up some other documents for Belarusians abroad.