Today, independent media outlets, human rights organisations and educational and research institutions in Belarus have once again been the target of widespread state intimidation and harassment. We condemn the searches, confiscations and arrests in the strongest possible terms. The ruthless actions taken by the Belarusian authorities with the aim of silencing civil-society organisations and independent media are absolutely unacceptable. The regime in Minsk has once again done injury to its own citizens.

Germany stands shoulder to shoulder with all those who are fighting to have their basic democratic rights respected – including freedom of opinion and press freedom. We will continue to support the beleaguered members of civil society in Belarus and will keep up the pressure of sanctions on the regime and those who profit from it. All those detained on political grounds must be released without delay.