By Anjali Sharma
UNITED NATIONS – UN independent human rights experts on Wednesday alarmed over Belarus’s increasing use of in absentia trials, which lack basic fair trial guarantees.
They noted that these trials can lead to severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences, property confiscation and even the death penalty.
“We have received numerous reports of individuals prosecuted in absentia in Belarus who learn of their prosecution by chance, are unaware of the charges and grounds for their conviction and are completely deprived of a legal defence,” the experts stated.
They highlighted that some individuals have unsuccessfully tried to participate remotely or obtain copies of the verdicts.
Belarusian legislation on in absentia trials disregards fair trial guarantees provided by the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, which Belarus has ratified.
The experts urged the authorities to honour their international obligations.
Civil society reports indicate a dramatic rise in such trials against Belarusians abroad, with 110 cases in 2024 compared to 18 in 2023.
OHCHR noted that since the disputed 2020 presidential elections, many Belarusians have fled due to government repression.
“Nevertheless, the Belarusian authorities continue to target these individuals, even in exile,” the experts noted.
They referred to 2023 decree that restricts access to identity and travel documents for Belarusians abroad.
Over 100 people, including political opposition members, civil society activists and human rights defenders, have been convicted in absentia since 2022, the experts said.
They stressed that those prosecuted are not notified of proceedings, cannot choose their defence lawyers and cannot participate remotely.
Judgements are not public and only brief verdict information is accessible online, they noted.
“Convictions in absentia inevitably lead to violations of various human rights,” the experts warned.
They cited fair trials, freedom of expression and adequate living standards. Sentences include long prison terms, heavy fines and potentially the death penalty.
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