Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya says that freedom, dignity and the right to vote belong to every person, yet in Belarus the authorities continue to do everything possible to destroy human rights. She made the statement in an address marking International Human Rights Day.
“Freedom, dignity and the right to vote belong to every human being, regardless of their citizenship, religion or place of residence. But in Belarus the regime is doing everything to eliminate human rights.
Thousands of Belarusians remain imprisoned simply for daring to be free, to defend their dignity and to speak out. This includes human rights defenders who worked every day to protect people and their rights. Today they are behind bars solely because of their work and their principles.
Those who, despite risks and constant pressure, continue to defend human rights, support families of prisoners and speak the truth to the world are the foundation of our shared strength.
Every word of solidarity, every initiative, every voice in defence of truth brings closer the moment when all political prisoners will be released and no new people will take their place.
We are creating our own future. Thanks to everyone who continues to struggle, who is unafraid to support others and to act for a future without fear and repression. And as long as Belarusians keep doing this, no one will be able to stop us.”
