After Black Thursday (12.11.2020) when a number of students and a teacher were detained the scale of repressions did not diminish, but they changed their pattern. Vice-Rectors for Security and Human Resources appeared in most universities, the majority of actions aimed to oppress Freedom of Speech and Freedom of Assembly are being implemented by them. Furthermore, it is important to mention that university administrations in Belarus are maintaining repressive politics expelling the most active students. In some universities, administrations created special conditions under which students could not pass their exams during the winter session. As a result, these students were also expelled. Administrations also monitor the attendance rate of active students. Additionally, student dormitories are being raided by police and students being arbitrarily kidnapped by them. It is to our deep disturbance to mention that students are facing flagrant criminal and administrative charges and being invited for a conversation with the Police.
The situation with teachers is essential to be noticed. The most active teachers were reprimanded. Some teachers were deprived of their salary bonuses. Some of the teachers were dismissed, the others were not renewed.
Parliament has passed amendments to the education code that now allow students to be expelled for 36 academic hours or 16 classes without any formal warning. For instance, previously, students could be expelled only after two reprimands. Since notice of administrative detention has not considered a sufficient reason for missing classes, students can be expelled for administrative arrest without reprimands.
Emphasising the Human Rights Crisis students and all other peaceful protesters face and considering previous condemnations and calls, BSA repeatedly urges the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Belarus to release all students arrested for exercising the right to a peaceful demonstration of political position. Bearing in mind the higher mentioned facts of scholars rights’ violations, BSA reiterates its suggestions to international stakeholders to consolidate efforts to achieve the cessation of Human Rights violations in Belarus, followingly, BSA calls for actions:
EIB – European Investment Bank
IMF – International Monetary Fund
WB – World Bank
UN – United Nations
OSCE – Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe
Proposed by: BSA
Seconded by: USI, UAS, LSVb, BOSS, ÖH