I condemn the excessive use of force used by the Government of #Belarus against peaceful protesters and journalists since the Presidential elections last weekend. The violence being used against the Belarusian people is appalling and it must stop. The world is watching.

The targeting & arbitrary detention of protesters, journalists & political opposition leaders by the Belarusian Government is unacceptable. I’m shocked by some of the brutal tactics we have seen, including the parading of visibly terrified, injured young protesters on state news.

I was very concerned to hear of the attack on a @BBCWorld crew by Belarusian security forces on 11 August. @foreignoffice has raised our urgent & significant concerns with @BelarusMFA and said they must ensure the safety of all journalists in Belarus.

I call on the Government of Belarus to:
Immediately release all those unjustly detained
Uphold the fundamental freedoms & human rights of its people
Engage in a constructive dialogue with political opposition & wider civil society
Listen to its people & understand their concerns

The Belarusian people have the right to determine their country’s future. The UK is working with our partners around the world to respond to the situation in #Belarus and hold the Government of Belarus to account.