Statement on the Release of Siarhei Tsikhanouski

I warmly welcome the news that Siarhei Tsikhanouski has been released following more than five years of unjust incarceration. This is a significant step forward, not only for him and his family, but for the courageous democratic forces in Belarus. At the EESC, we stand firmly with those now free, and especially with the over hundreds of prisoners who remain behind bars, including journalists, activists, and trade unionists.

We reiterate our commitment, under the Memorandum of Understanding, to amplify their voices: by advocating relentlessly within EU institutions, supporting civil society partners, and reinforcing ties with democratic forces from Belarus. The developments this Saturday are a moment of renewed hope, but our work continues until every voice silenced by repression is heard.