The dramatic call for freedom
On 10 December 2025, International Human Rights Day, a group of MEPs made an urgent appeal to the European Commission. Their aim: the release of Belarusian opposition politician Maryia Kalesnikava and more than 1,160 other political prisoners. The initiators of this appeal are SPÖ MEPs Elisabeth Grossmann and Andreas Schieder. They are calling for a clear stance by the EU towards the Belarusian regime under Aljaksandr Lukaschenka.
Who is Maryia Kalesnikava?
Maryia Kalesnikava is a prominent figure in the struggle for democracy in Belarus. She was arrested in September 2020 after she openly opposed President Lukaschenka's disputed re-election. Kalesnikava is known for her courage and determination, which she has not lost even in the toughest times.
The historical background
Belarus, often referred to as Europe’s last dictatorship, has been ruled by President Lukashenko since 1994. His rule is characterized by repression and human rights abuses. The 2020 elections led to massive protests, as many Belarusians viewed the results as rigged. Kalesnikava was one of the leading figures in these protests.
The role of the European Union
The EU faces a challenge: how should it respond to the ongoing human rights abuses in Belarus? Previous sanctions and diplomatic efforts do not seem to have had the desired effect. According to Grossmann and Schieder, it is time to take off the kid gloves and act more decisively.
- Targeted sanctions against those responsible
- Coordinated diplomatic action
- Clear stance against human rights violations
Comparison with other countries
The situation in Belarus is reminiscent of similar cases in other countries that suffer under autocratic regimes. One example is Russia, where political opponents are often persecuted and imprisoned. The difference lies in the international response: while Russia is often handled with kid gloves because of its geopolitical importance, Belarus, as a smaller country, could be put under greater pressure.
The impact on citizens
For Belarusians, the ongoing repression means a daily threat to their freedom. Many have left the country to escape the pressure. Those who have stayed live in fear of arrest and repression. The release of Kalesnikava would be a symbolic victory for the pro-democracy movement and could bring new hope to the Belarusian people.
Plausible expert quotes
"The release of Maryia Kalesnikava would be an important step toward the restoration of human rights in Belarus," says Dr. Anna Müller, an expert in Eastern European politics. "The EU must act now to show that it will not tolerate human rights violations."
Future outlook
The coming months will be decisive. The EU faces a choice: either continue to act diplomatically or take tougher measures. The release of Maryia Kalesnikava could serve as a catalyst for change in Belarus. But this will require courage and determination from the international community.
Political contexts and dependencies
Relations between the EU and Belarus are strained. Lukashenko is supported by Russia, which further complicates the situation. The EU must find a way to exert pressure on Belarus without jeopardizing relations with Russia.
Conclusion
The appeal of EU parliamentarians is an important step in the fight for human rights in Belarus. The international community must act now to secure the release of Maryia Kalesnikava and other political prisoners. Only then can the promise of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights be fulfilled: the right of every person to live a life of dignity, security, and freedom.
