Фото: x.com/Latvian_MFA
European institutions and several EU member states congratulated Belarusians on Freedom Day on the 108th anniversary of the proclamation of the Belarusian People’s Republic.
The European Economic and Social Committee expressed “full solidarity with the people of Belarus in their pursuit of freedom, dignity, & fundamental rights” and declared support for the country’s civil society, democratic trade unions, and independent media.
The European External Action Service reaffirmed its solidarity with the Belarusian people and recalled that Freedom Day is linked to the proclamation of the Belarusian People’s Republic in 1918.
“The EU will continue to support a democratic, sovereign, and independent Belarus,” the statement published on X said.
“On Belarus Freedom Day, we celebrate all those who keep the hope of a future sovereign and democratic Belarus alive. We will continue to support the people of Belarus in their fight for freedom and democracy,” the Directorate-General for Enlargement and Eastern Neighbourhood said.
Latvia’s Foreign Ministry called for the release of all political prisoners and stressed that “freedom, sovereignty, and democracy are not something to be taken for granted.” Latvia declared firm support for a free and democratic Belarus as part of Europe.
“On Belarus FreedomDay, we are once again reminded that freedom, sovereignty and democracy is not to be taken for granted. It must be actively protected every day, on every step. Latvia stands firmly in support of a free and democratic Belarus as part of Europe. We commend the courage of Belarusians striving for a democratic future of their country. It is their country. Oppression of Belarussian people must stop, and all political prisoners must be released.,” the Latvian Foreign Ministry said.
Estonia’s Foreign Ministry said that the 1918 proclamation of the Belarusian People’s Republic embodied “a bold vision of a free and independent Belarus.”
“Amid ongoing human rights concerns and questions of democratic legitimacy, this day stands for dignity, solidarity, and support for all who work toward a more open and just society. Freedom is not granted; it is nurtured and defended. Estonia stands with a free and democratic Belarus,” the ministry said.
Lithuanian President Gitanas Nausėda expressed hope that, despite current challenges, a democratic Belarus will find its rightful place among European nations.
“As we mark Belarus Freedom Day, we join you in remembering and celebrating the aspiration for freedom that lives in every human heart. This day symbolizes your perseverance and determination to build a free, democratic, and pluralistic Belarus — a state in which respect for human rights, the rule of law, and civil society is not a privilege of the few but an integral part of everyday life for everyone,” he said.
He stressed that the Lithuanian people understand well the value of freedom and democracy, and that historical experience obliges Lithuania “to stand with Belarus: to support civil society, independent journalists, human rights defenders, and everyone who peacefully opposes the tyranny of the Lukashenka regime, defending fundamental rights and human dignity.”
“The courage to stand up for one’s beliefs is never in vain. It inspires change not only in Belarus but across Europe. Lithuania will continue to firmly support the Belarusian people’s aspiration to return to the rule of law, end repression, release and rehabilitate all political prisoners, and in the future freely and fairly determine the destiny of their state,” the message said.