HRC61 - Iceland GC - A/HRC/61/L.14: Situation of human rights in Belarus
Human Rights Council – 61st Session
General Comment on draft resolution L.14
Situation of human rights in Belarus
Statement by Iceland
30 March 2026
Mr. President.
Iceland thanks the European Union for presenting this resolution.
Iceland reiterates its solidarity with the democratic forces of Belarus that bravely fight for a free and democratic Belarus every day.
Iceland remains deeply concerned by the grave human rights situation in Belarus, where the scale and systematic nature of violations have been well documented across the United Nations system.
The draft resolution accurately reflects these findings, including violations that may amount to crimes against humanity. It further highlights the wide range of victims, including women, children, peaceful protesters and others exercising their fundamental freedoms. We are also concerned of growing and well-documented pattern of transnational repression targeting Belarusians abroad,
Mr. President.
Iceland’s thoughts remain with the hundreds of political prisoners who continue to be unjustly detained in Belarus, including journalists and human rights defenders. The release of political prisoners is a matter of fundamental justice.
While we note the release of some detainees, these releases are often conditional and accompanied by forced exile or continued harassment. Releases must not be followed by forced deportation, and those released should be provided with valid identity documents.
Mr. President,
Ensuring accountability for human rights violations and abuses in Belarus is critical. In that regard, the mandates of the Group of Independent Experts and the Special Rapporteur play a crucial role in documenting violations and supporting efforts towards justice.
We reiterate our strong support for these two distinct but complementary mandates, as well as for the continued attention of the Human Rights Council to the situation in Belarus.
By supporting this resolution, the Council sends a clear message in support towards victims of violations and abuse in Belarus and reaffirms its commitment to accountability and human rights.
Therefore, Iceland will support this resolution and encourages other member states to do the same.
I thank you