European Union Prolongs Sanctions Against Lukashenka’s Regime

• 27.02.2017, 14:00

On February 27, 2017, the Council of the EU has decided to prolong the restrictive measures against Belarus for one year, until February 28, 2018.

The press-center of the Council of the EU has informed this to the Charter97.org.

These measures include an arms embargo, an asset freeze and a travel ban against four people listed in connection with the unresolved disappearances of two opposition politicians, one businessman and one journalist in 1999 and in 2000.

The Council also introduced an exemption to the restrictive measures to allow export of biathlon equipment to Belarus, which will remain subject to prior authorisation by national competent authorities on a case by case basis.

As stated in the Council’s decision dated February 15, 2016, tangible steps taken by Belarus to respect universal fundamental freedoms, rule of law and human rights will remain key for the shaping of the EU's future policy towards Belarus.