Recognizing the ongoing crackdown on freedom of expression and human rights in Belarus a year after the 2020 election, calling for an end to Alyaksandr Lukashenka's continued campaign of repression against peaceful protesters, journalists, cultural workers, human rights defenders, trade union activists, political activists, and government critics, and expressing solidarity with the Belarusian people.

12/31/2022, 5:35 AM

Summary of Bill HRES 681

Bill 117 H.Res. 681 is a resolution that acknowledges the ongoing suppression of freedom of expression and human rights in Belarus following the controversial 2020 election. The resolution condemns President Alyaksandr Lukashenka's persistent efforts to silence peaceful protesters, journalists, cultural workers, human rights defenders, trade union activists, political activists, and government critics.

The resolution calls for an immediate end to Lukashenka's campaign of repression and expresses solidarity with the people of Belarus who have been subjected to these violations. It highlights the importance of upholding democratic values and protecting the rights of individuals to peacefully express their opinions without fear of retaliation.

Overall, Bill 117 H.Res. 681 serves as a strong statement of support for the Belarusian people and a condemnation of the ongoing human rights abuses in the country. It emphasizes the need for international solidarity in addressing these issues and calls for an end to the crackdown on freedom of expression in Belarus.

Congressional Summary of HRES 681

This resolution condemns Belarusian authorities' assault on freedom of expression and human rights in Belarus since the August 2020 presidential election.

The resolution also calls for the immediate release of journalists, cultural figures, and dissidents currently held as political prisoners in Belarus.

Furthermore, the resolution calls on the Biden Administration to

support initiatives to assist survivors of torture and other human rights violations from Belarus, including by working with allies in the region to grant them protection and providing avenues for them and their families to access safety in the United States;
examine all available accountability options for violators of human rights and fundamental freedoms; and
demand that Belarus cooperate fully with international partners and organizations, including the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights.

Finally, the resolution supports the aspirations of the Belarusian people in their struggle for freedom and human rights.

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Current Status of Bill HRES 681

Bill HRES 681 is currently in the status of Bill Introduced since September 24, 2021. Bill HRES 681 was introduced during Congress 117 and was introduced to the House on September 24, 2021. Bill HRES 681's most recent activity was Referred to the Subcommittee on Europe, Energy, the Environment and Cyber. as of October 12, 2021

Bipartisan Support of Bill HRES 681

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Policy Area and Potential Impact of Bill HRES 681

Primary Policy Focus

International Affairs

Alternate Title(s) of Bill HRES 681

Recognizing the ongoing crackdown on freedom of expression and human rights in Belarus a year after the 2020 election, calling for an end to Alyaksandr Lukashenka's continued campaign of repression against peaceful protesters, journalists, cultural workers, human rights defenders, trade union activists, political activists, and government critics, and expressing solidarity with the Belarusian people.