Verkkolähetykset

Helsinki Dialogue - A democratic future for Belarus

13.00 - 13.45 Opening session

13.45 - 14.45 Belarus in the global geopolitical context

Panel discussion on the security landscape, the geopolitical situation, and the role of the international community.

Introduction In continued efforts to intensify engagement with Belarusians who are fighting for democracy, human rights and the rule of law to prevail in their country, the Parliamentary Assembly, in co-operation with the Parliament of Finland, proposes the Helsinki Dialogue, bringing together Belarusian democratic forces, civil society, and journalists, as well as parliamentarians from Council of Europe member States. The event will discuss ways to support initiatives for a democratic future for Belarus.

Objective This event builds on the structured and regular dialogue of the Assembly with Belarusian democratic forces, and enhances links with civil society, human rights defenders, independent journalists and academia with a view to contributing to enhancing their visibility and outreach. It further aims to generate a better understanding of the situation in Belarus and that of Belarusians in exile amongst national parliamentarians, and provides a broad platform for co-operation and dialogue. The overarching aim of the conference is to contribute to democratic change in Belarus.