I Deeply Regret That This Election Cannot Be Considered Free and Fair: PACE on Belarus Elections

The President of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE), Hendrik Dam, has stated that the presidential elections in Belarus cannot be considered either free or fair. "I deeply regret that this election cannot be considered free and fair. The events of last night, including the use of police and military force and the detention of protesters, have heightened my concerns," Dam said.

He reminded that Belarus joined the Council of Europe in 1997, but that process has been frozen due to a lack of progress in the development of democracy and a competitive political system.

Additionally, Dam urged the authorities of the Republic to "ensure the fundamental human rights and freedom of assembly" in accordance with international obligations undertaken by Minsk.