Pavel Latushko, the deputy head of the opposition coordination council in Belarus, has called on Polish citizens to participate in a rally commemorating Freedom Day scheduled for March 25, 2025, in Warsaw. This appeal comes in response to recent threats from Belarusian authorities against participants who plan to protest abroad.
In addressing these threats, Latushko emphasized that the crimes perpetrated by Alyaksandr Lukashenko's regime against Belarusians extend beyond the country's borders. He stated, "Crimes by the Lukashenko regime do not stop at the borders of Belarus. More than 600,000 Belarusians have been forced to leave the country due to the atmosphere of fear and terror created by the dictator. Even abroad, they face persecution: in absentia judgments, confiscation of property, criminal charges, attempted murders, violence, and pressure on loved ones back in Belarus. All these crimes have a transnational nature."
Latushko also noted that the Lithuanian government has initiated a preliminary investigation into the situation in Belarus at the International Criminal Court. His comments highlight the international dimension of the human rights abuses occurring in Belarus, which continue to affect individuals even when they seek safety outside their homeland.
With the threat of repercussions looming, Latushko urged Belarusians planning to attend the demonstrations to take necessary precautions. He suggested using masks, glasses, and wigs to avoid identification by authorities. "We call on the Polish society: support Belarusians! Come along with us to the rally in defense of freedom and democracy. You are not in danger – you live in a free country and are protected by your state. I appeal to Belarusians: it is important for us to be together on this significant day, but make sure to use all possible precautions to avoid identification by the regime,” Latushko urged.
The main gathering for the rally is scheduled to take place at 1:00 PM on March 23, 2025, at Three Crosses Square in Warsaw. Latushko has called on participants to be vigilant, and reminded them of the potential risks involved.
Moreover, the Investigative Committee of Belarus has recently issued warnings of criminal prosecution and the seizure of property for anyone participating in protests abroad, further heightening tensions surrounding the upcoming event. This context adds to the urgency of Latushko's call for support from Polish citizens and for safety measures among Belarusians.
As the date approaches, many are awaiting the response from both the Belarusian authorities and the international community regarding the potential implications of these protests. With increasing scrutiny on the actions of the Lukashenko regime, Latushko's call for unity and alarms regarding safety emphasize a critical moment for Belarusians advocating for their rights and freedoms.
