US Helsinki Commission protests against beating of demonstrators during anti-Putin rally

Congressman Alcee L. Hastings, Chairman of the Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe (CSCE), also known as the Helsinki Commission, has made a statement in connection with cruel beating up of the 19-year-old Zmitser Fedaruk during a peaceful rally in Minsk on December 12. According to witnesses, Fedaruk was beaten and knocked unconscious by riot policemen, then rushed by ambulance to the hospital.

“The merciless beating of Mr. Fedaruk is both outrageous and tragic. Just last week, he was here in Washington appearing before the Helsinki Commission, where he spoke of the dangers young human rights activists face in Belarus. I not only stand behind Mr. Fedaruk’s fight for freedom, but I condemn in the strongest possible terms these acts of violence against innocent individuals.

Belarus’ dismal track record with respect for human rights and democracy is no secret. Unfortunately, the intimidation and abuse by Alexander Lukashenka’s regime does not seem to be coming to an end any time soon. My colleagues and I on the Helsinki Commission are determined to stand by young Mr. Fedaruk and all those in Belarus – young and old – struggling for freedom, democracy and respect for human rights”, Congressman Alcee L. Hastings stated.

On December 4, Fedaruk testified before the Helsinki Commission at a briefing entitled, “The Future Belarus: Democracy or Dictatorship?”, Radio Svaboda reminds.