The ECR Group stands in solidarity with the people of Belarus amidst recent raids and searches of the homes of political prisoners by the regime's security apparatus, resulting in over 200 arrests, the majority of whom are wives and mothers of political prisoners.

Among those arrested is Maryna Adamovich, wife of political prisoner, former presidential candidate and 2020 Sakharov Prize laureate, Mikalai Statkevich.

Speaking during Wednesday evening’s plenary debate in Strasbourg, ECR foreign affairs coordinator Anna Fotyga said:

“The oppressive actions of the Lukashenko regime against the Belarusian opposition evoke painful memories from our regional history. The recent crackdown on hundreds of family members of prominent political leaders and their closest associates bears a striking resemblance to the tactics employed by Bolshevik and Stalinist regimes.

“It is imperative that we stand in solidarity with all those affected by these repressive regime’s measures and demand the immediate release of all political prisoners. Belarus is our closest neighbour, and we cannot turn a blind eye to the injustices being perpetrated against its citizens.”

The ECR Group calls for the immediate and unconditional release of the detained relatives of political prisoners.

The resolution was adopted in Thursdays voting session, 459 in favour, 14 against and 33 abstentions.