This week, Belarusian opposition leaders Sergey Tihanovski and Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya addressed the European Parliament in Strasbourg, marking a significant moment in the ongoing struggle for democracy in Belarus.
Their presence underscored the resilience of the Belarusian people and the continued importance of international support in their fight against authoritarianism.
European Parliament President Roberta Metsola welcomed the two leaders, describing them as “living proof that the fight for a free and democratic Belarus is alive and strong.” She emphasized that their presence in the European Parliament highlighted the unbreakable bonds between Europe and the Belarusian people, reaffirming the EU’s commitment to supporting democratic movements in its neighbourhood.
In her address, Tsikhanouskaya expressed gratitude for the European Parliament’s unwavering support since the onset of the 2020 protests. She highlighted the EU’s role in advocating for the release of political prisoners and imposing sanctions on the Lukashenka regime. Tsikhanouskaya also called for sustained international pressure on Belarus to free over 1,300 political prisoners, asserting that “sanctions do work, no matter what the regime’s apologists say.”
Turning to the broader geopolitical context, Tsikhanouskaya emphasized the interconnectedness of democratic struggles. She stated, “The Ukrainian people fight not only for their own land, they fight for all of us,” urging the EU to provide Ukraine with the necessary support to counter Russian aggression. She advocated for measures to weaken Russian influence, including sanctions targeting oil revenues and the confiscation of assets, noting that a weaker Russia would also diminish the strength of the Lukashenka regime.
Sergey Tihanovski, who was released from prison after five years of solitary confinement, shared his experiences and reaffirmed his commitment to the cause. He expressed regret that the 2020 movement did not achieve its objectives, partly due to insufficient European support at the time. Tihanovski’s foremost priority is now to secure the release of the remaining political prisoners still held in Belarusian jails.
The European Parliament’s continued engagement with Belarusian opposition leaders serves as a reminder of the EU’s responsibility to support democratic movements and human rights globally. As the situation in Belarus remains dire, the EU’s role in providing moral and practical support to opposition leaders like Tsikhanouskaya and Tihanovski is crucial in sustaining the momentum for democratic change.
The addresses by Sergey Tihanovski and Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya in the European Parliament underscore the enduring struggle for democracy in Belarus and the vital role of international solidarity. Their call for renewed EU commitment serves as a timely reminder of the importance of supporting democratic movements and human rights in neighbouring countries. As Belarus continues to grapple with authoritarian rule, the EU’s sustained support remains essential in the fight for freedom and democracy.
