Bill > HRes124

This Resolution, passed by the House of Representatives, expresses strong support for the people of Belarus and their desire for democracy, while unequivocally condemning the fraudulent August 9, 2020 presidential election and the subsequent violent suppression of peaceful protests by the regime of Alyaksandr Lukashenka, whom the Resolution does not recognize as legitimate. It calls for new, free, and fair elections observed by the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), emphasizes Belarus's right to self-determination free from foreign interference, and denounces the human rights violations committed by Belarusian authorities against various groups, demanding an end to violence and the immediate release of all political prisoners and unlawfully detained individuals. The Resolution acknowledges the bravery of the Belarusian people, particularly women, in their peaceful pursuit of democracy and urges dialogue for a peaceful transition of power, while also advocating for the protection of civil society and opposition members. It recognizes the Coordination Council, established by Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, as a legitimate body for transition talks and calls for continued international cooperation, including coordinated sanctions against Belarusian authorities and state-owned companies involved in human rights abuses and election rigging, while considering the potential implications of such sanctions. Furthermore, it urges a review of financial assistance to the Lukashenka regime, supports increased funding for Belarusian civil society and independent journalists, calls for an international investigation into human rights abuses, and reaffirms unwavering support for Belarus's aspirations for democracy, human rights, and the rule of law, recognizing their importance for the nation's sovereignty and territorial integrity.