Belarus spoke at UN Security Council

During the 61st session of the UN Human Rights Council, Belarus's Deputy Foreign Minister Igor Sekret delivered a critical address to the international organization. He noted that this year marks the 20th anniversary of the Council, which replaced the Commission on Human Rights, and stated, 'Belarus was against radical reforms, proposing instead to fix the Commission. And it turned out to be right.' He emphasized that resolutions adopted in the chamber 'are not about human rights' and serve to 'justify sanctions, external pressure, and the lynching of inconvenient states.' Sekret stressed that conflicts in country assessments are created 'under the magnifying glass—while others remain in the Council's blind spot,' calling for all countries to return to the fundamental principles of respect for sovereign equality and non-interference in internal affairs. Positions in Belarus, he stated, 'are based on stability, social protection, and citizen support,' and 'no sanctions can stop a country confidently moving toward achieving its goals.' According to the minister, the Belarusian people's experience 'is one as never before,' and they 'are building a future focused on progress, stability, and citizens' well-being.'

Context

The UN Human Rights Council marks its 20th anniversary in 2024, having replaced the Commission on Human Rights. Belarus has long opposed the reforms and advocated for the preservation of the previous institutions.