There can be no genuine democracy in Belarus without equality, and no justice without the fight against discrimination

"The goal of the Belarusian democratic movement is to build a society of true equality, a society where there is no place for discrimination and second-class citizens", noted Deputy Head of the United Transitional Cabinet, Head of the National Anti-Crisis Management, Pavel Latushka, at the opening of the event organized in Strasbourg by the Council of Europe — "European Standards of Equality and Anti-Discrimination", in support of Belarusian democratic forces and civil society.

Pavel Latushka, speaking on behalf of Cabinet Head Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, delivered a welcoming address to the participants, emphasizing that:

"For decades, the people of Belarus have lived in a system where equality is denied, discrimination is institutionalized, and repression based on discriminatory grounds is used as a tool of governance. Independent voices are silenced, civil society is persecuted, and entire communities face systemic discrimination.

In 2018, Lukashenko referred to a bill aimed at combating domestic violence and discriminatory practices as, and I quote, a 'foolish Western import', even claiming that such measures contradict so-called 'Slavic traditions'. Using 'traditions' to justify violence and discrimination is profoundly cynical. I cannot speak for all Slavic peoples, but I can say with confidence that there is no place for violence in Belarusian traditions — neither in the family nor in society as a whole. All the violence we see in Belarus today is the result of a regime alien to our people.

We envision a future Belarus where everyone — regardless of gender, ethnic origin, religion, language, political beliefs, or social background — can fully and equally participate in public life".

The Deputy Head of the Cabinet emphasized the importance of using European standards on equality and anti-discrimination as a benchmark for a democratic Belarus, noting that for Belarusian democratic forces and civil society, these standards serve as:

• A source of legitimacy — ensuring that the future Belarus will align with European values of equality and justice.

• A practical tool — providing tested legal frameworks, policies, and institutional models for combating discrimination in all its forms.

• A moral shield — giving activists and citizens confidence that their struggle is not isolated, but part of broader European commitments.

"I want to thank the Council of Europe for its unwavering support of Belarusian civil society in promoting equality, human rights, and democratic values. I would also like to acknowledge the efforts of Belarusian civil society organizations, particularly the Belarusian Helsinki Committee, which developed the Concept of a System of Measures for Combating Discrimination and Ensuring Equality in Belarus, including the draft law 'On Equality and Non-Discrimination'".

During his speech, Pavel Latushka stressed that the Belarusians’ fight for equality is not only a national struggle but also a broader European one.

"Let me once again confirm: there can be no genuine democracy in Belarus without equality, and no justice without the fight against discrimination", emphasized Pavel Latushka.

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