Latushka Discusses Protection of Belarusians from Transnational Repression with Nordic Countries

Reform.news Editorial Team · 30 October 2026, 10:47

https://reform.news/en/latushka-discusses-protection-of-belarusians-from-transnational-repression-with-nordic-countries/

Deputy Head of the United Transitional Cabinet Pavel Latushka discussed the persecution of Belarusians abroad and possible mechanisms for protection against transnational repression during meetings in Strasbourg with representatives of five Nordic countries, Germany and the Council of Europe.

According to the United Transitional Cabinet’s press service, diplomats initiated a separate discussion on the problems faced by Belarusians forced to leave the country during a meeting with the ambassadors of Finland, Norway, Denmark, Sweden and Iceland. In particular, the talks addressed difficulties in obtaining and renewing Belarusian passports, the recognition of notarised documents, as well as attempts at recruitment and espionage.

The parties discussed which Council of Europe mechanisms could serve as a basis for developing national instruments to protect against transnational repression.

Latushka also spoke about the ongoing repression in Belarus. He noted that the release of groups of political prisoners with US involvement had not led to an end to persecution, and that the lists of political prisoners continued to grow.

He urged European countries to maintain a united position towards the Belarusian authorities and not ease sanctions. The politician stressed that any contacts with official Minsk must respect the principle of “Nothing about Belarusians without Belarusians”.

A separate meeting with Germany’s Permanent Representative to the Council of Europe focused on the establishment of a Special Tribunal for the Crime of Aggression against Ukraine. Latushka spoke about the collection of evidence concerning the involvement of Aliaksandr Lukashenka and his inner circle in the aggression, as well as the investigation into the unlawful transfer of Ukrainian children to Belarus and efforts to facilitate their return.

Latushka discussed a national dialogue strategy using a round-table mechanism with Natalie Sabanadze, the Council of Europe’s Director of Political Affairs and External Relations. An agreement was also reached to hold a presentation in Warsaw of the Council of Europe’s Information Point for Belarusians, which opened in Vilnius in May 2026.

Latushka thanked the Nordic countries for their participation in the International Humanitarian Fund, which provides support to former political prisoners and their family members.