Belarus started withdrawing from the UN Optional Protocol

Belarus started the procedure for withdrawing from the Optional Protocol. It establishes a mechanism for filing complaints with the UN Human Rights Committee, Sputnik reported.

The draft law on termination of participation in the Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights of December 16, 1966 was adopted in the first reading.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Belarus stated, "Further participation of the Republic of Belarus in the optional protocol is considered inappropriate". He also added, "Belarus has repeatedly informed the Human Rights Committee about the unacceptability of its actions regarding the broad interpretation of its powers".

Belarus will continue to be a party to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and an active supporter of international cooperation on the protection of human rights, carried out on the principles of equality and non-interference in internal affairs.

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Photo: wwda.org.au