Łukašenka signs controversial citizenship law amendments

January 5, BPN. Alaksandr Łukašenka has signed into law amendments to the law “On Citizenship of the Republic of Belarus,” making it possible to revoke birthright citizenship.

“In particular, the amendments clarify who can become a Belarusian citizen by birth, oblige those getting Belarusian passports to take an oath, and also oblige Belarusians to notify relevant authorities if they have foreign passports, residence permits or any other documents entitling them to benefits and privileges abroad,” Łukašenka’s press office said.

There is also a provision that says that individuals can lose birthright citizenship because of “a court sentence that has come into legal force, confirming that a person participates in extremist activities or causes serious harm to Belarus’ interests, when that person is outside Belarus.”

The amendments are reportedly aimed at “improving the legislation on citizenship in order to ensure national security.” Analysts say that the law can be used to intimidate Belarusian opposition leaders in exile.