Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya took part in an international discussion in Berlin focused on countering transnational repression by authoritarian regimes. Diplomats, representatives of global media, and think tanks participated in the event, the Office of the democratic forces’ leader reported.
In her speech, the politician stated that transnational repression is becoming a serious threat to international security.
“In the past, repression was largely confined within national borders. But today, even abroad, you can no longer feel safe. Dictatorships have learned to pursue their opponents wherever they may be,” she said.
Tsikhanouskaya called for the issue of transnational repression to be brought before the UN Security Council and the UN General Assembly.
Addressing international partners, she emphasized that support for Belarusian refugees, civil society, human rights organizations, and independent media is not only assistance to Belarusians, but also protection for Europe itself.
“By protecting Belarusians abroad — journalists, activists, asylum seekers and those who have already been granted asylum — European countries are protecting themselves from infiltration and influence by Lukashenka’s agents,” she said.
The goals of the Berlin meeting include developing concrete policy recommendations, strengthening cooperation between policymakers, civil society, and media, as well as forming a common approach to countering transnational repression.
