OSCE Chairmanship calls for restraint and respect for OSCE commitments following Belarus presidential elections

VIENNA / TIRANA, 10 August 2020 – Albania’s OSCE Chairmanship has expressed concern about developments in Belarus following the presidential elections held on 9 August, which the OSCE’s Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights was unable to observe. The Chairmanship has been following reports of protests and the use of force against protesters as well as detentions and obstruction of the work of journalists and media.

The Albanian Chairmanship urges full respect for OSCE commitments, including the right to peaceful assembly, and called for all sides to show restraint at this critical time. The Chairmanship will continue to follow developments closely.