Politics

Lithuania has called on the International Criminal Court (ICC) to investigate possible crimes against humanity committed by Alexander Lukashenko’s regime, including deportations,  persecution of political opposition, and inhumane treatment.

The ICC, based in The Hague, Netherlands, was approached after relevant evidence was reviewed by opposition groups and other sources.

"Impunity can no longer continue, and justice must be done. Lithuania has taken the first step, but we urge others to join us in what is essential for justice to prevail," said Lithuanian Justice Minister Ewelina Dobrowolska.

Svetlana Tikhanovskaya, the main opposition figure against the Belarusian regime, who has been living in Vilnius since 2020, welcomed the move.

"The crimes committed by this regime, from forced deportations to illegal arrests and torture, cannot go unpunished. Lithuania’s courage gives us hope that the world is finally holding the regime accountable for its atrocities," she posted on X.

Tikhanovskaya also reminded that 300,000 Belarusians have been forced to flee since 2020, following the country's last election and the brutal crackdown on opposition leaders.

(QG - Source : Euractiv / Picture: © Pixabay)