Bill > SRes472

This resolution supports designating October 30 as the "International Day of Political Prisoners" and addresses the global issue of political imprisonment. The resolution highlights that approximately 1 million political prisoners worldwide, including journalists, activists, and human rights defenders, are currently detained by authoritarian regimes in countries like Belarus, China, Cuba, Egypt, Iran, Myanmar, Russia, Turkey, and Venezuela. It references the historical origin of this commemoration, which began on October 30, 1974, when Ukrainian and Russian prisoners of conscience in the Soviet Gulag started marking a day to draw attention to those imprisoned for their political or religious beliefs. The resolution deplores political repression, expresses solidarity with imprisoned individuals, and calls on the United States government to condemn political imprisonment, hold responsible regimes accountable, raise international awareness, and work to secure the release of political prisoners through diplomatic negotiations. By supporting the annual designation of this day, the resolution aims to highlight the ongoing global struggle for political freedom and human rights.

Government Affairs

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-resolution/472/all-info