Nobel Laureates Demand Lukashenko End Repression, Release Political Prisoners

Image of attorney-at-law Aliaksandr Danilevich by Global Arbitration Review.

In a powerful appeal to the self-proclaimed Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko, fifty-five Nobel laureates have signed an open letter demanding the release of more political prisoners. This call comes in the wake of a report by the human rights group Viasna, which confirmed the release of 18 prisoners earlier this month.

Among the distinguished signatories are three Nobel literature laureates, including Belarusian writer Svetlana Alexievich, as well as seven peace laureates and 45 winners in the fields of science and economics. Their collective message to Lukashenko is clear: «It is unacceptable to subject the people of your country to severe trials and harsh conditions solely for their beliefs. Every person has the right to their opinion and deserves respect for their individuality.»

The letter emphasizes that Lukashenko has a «unique opportunity to turn the page on the past and enter history not only as an uncompromising ruler but also as a political leader who has shown wisdom and compassion, responsible to your people and their future.»

Despite the recent releases, Viasna reports that approximately 1,400 individuals remain incarcerated for their political activities. Lukashenko, a self-proclaimed leader, lost the 2020 election but seized power through unprecedented violence and repression. A close ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin, he has ruled Belarus for thirty years.

Notably, Aliaksandr Danilevich, an attorney-at-law specialising in sports and friend of the AFF pictured here, is currently a political prisoner in Belarus.
Furthermore, several members of the advisory board have also faced prosecution on political grounds by the Lukashenko regime.