Human rights defenders recognize 12 more people as political prisoners, bringing the total to 1,062

February 15, BPN. Belarusian human rights defenders have recognized 12 more people as political prisoners, according to a joint statement published on the website of Viasna Human Rights Center.

Daniil Čeŭnakoŭ, Aliaksandr Novaš, Vasil Jarmolienka, Illia and Nikita Valencinovič, Tacciana Hacko, Kaciaryna Hibkaja, Anastasija Kucharava, Aliaksandra Huzanava, Uladzimir Sieviaryn, Siarhiej Jaroškin, and Siarhiej Lapko were recognized as political prisoners. They all are accused, detained or convicted under Article 342, part 1 of the Criminal Code (group actions that grossly violate public order).

The statement notes that the freedom of peaceful assembly is guaranteed by Article 21 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.

The statement was signed by the Barys Zvozskaŭ Human Rights House as well as by the unregistered but still operating Belarusian NGOs: Viasna Human Rights Center, Legal Initiative, Lawtrend, Belarusian PEN Center, and Belarusian Helsinki Committee.

1,062 people are recognized as political prisoners in Belarus.