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Andrei Sannikov: Economic Sanctions Against Lukashenka's Regime Must Be Reimposed

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Andrei Sannikov: Economic Sanctions Against Lukashenka's Regime Must Be Reimposed

The blocking of Charter-97 has far-reaching effects.

The blocking access to the most popular independent Internet source of Belarus is a key indicator of the state of Lukashenka's regime. An ill-advised act of the authorities will bear great consequences both in out of the country.

The leader of European Belarus, Andrei Sannikov, told in the interview with Charter97.org.

- The blocking of Charter-97 is a wicked blow on democracy and freedom of speech. But on the part of the Belarusian regime, it's predictable. There were attempts to block or restrict access to the site before. But this time the authorities have gone to extremes. The situation is desperate, I guess.

The blocking of "Charter-97" in Belarus is absolutely unacceptable, and all those who cherish principles of democracy and respect human rights should declare it and demand the abolition of this decision. Both in Belarus and abroad.

- What consequences can this step of the Belarusian authorities bear?

- Of course, there should be international consequences.

"Charter-97" is a unique resource in Belarus. Today it's influence may be compared to one which Radio Svaboda had during the Soviet times. I am grateful to "Charter-97" for the sequence of positions. Today it is very important.

We can see that not all independent media manage pressure of the regime and trying to save themselves they change their position. At the moment, the Charter holds its positions and I hope nothing will change. The consistent defence of principles enshrined in Charter-97 20 years ago is a distinctive feature of this resource.

In addition, the Charter has become an influential regional media, which is read not only in Belarus, but also in Russia, Ukraine, the Baltic states, the the Caucasus region and Central Asia. The blocking of Charter in Belarus is an attempt to clear the way for Russian propaganda in the region.

International organizations and democratic states should take it into consideration and should react with specific measures. No only international media, but also international structures should take adequate measures, as it's not only the neglect of the freedom of speech. This is an attack on democracy, human rights and, finally, the independence of the Republic of Belarus.

- What specific measures should be taken by diplomats and politicians of Western countries in response to the blocking of "Charter-97"?

- I think that Western diplomats play "a long game" with Lukashenka and once again they do not want to recognize the defeat of their policy line. Negotiations on the blocking access of the Charter in Belarus will be tortuous.

Nevertheless, if the decision on blocking is not revoked in the near future, all restrictive measures against the Lukashenka regime must be reimposed. Involving economic sanctions.

- People in the IT and investment sphere say that Belarus may suffer great financial losses in connection with the blocking of "Charter-97". Do you agree with this?

- Yes, of course. After all, "Charter-97" indicates plans of the regime. If the Charter is available in Belarus, it means some hope for changes. It serves as the ground to express strict, consistent, democratic position.

When such petty measures are taken, it indicates that screws will be tightened, and the regime is ready for other attack, first of all, on the welfare of the people. The economy suffers only failures. Meanwhile, Drazdy make a feast and have an increased appetite.

Things Viktar Prakapenya said are the sober voice of the close-to-power business community and it must be heard. if the authorities hear it, then there is the future.

But that's not even the point. The fact is that the assessment given by independent media and the business community must be followed by specific steps. It's time for the private business of Belarus to understand that it must contribute to the future of the country. Today businessmen can help "Charter-97", the civil society, the opposition.

Don't be afraid to do that. Generally speaking, it will contribute to your future and your reputation in future. The current situation, a slight "thaw" in the business sphere will not last long: you will still have no opportunity to do business as you want. If you are not imprisoned, then robbed. You'd better think about your future.

- "Charter-97" is read by vast segments of the population. What can an ordinary reader do to hasten the unblocking of the site?

- Readers of Charter (I see there are a lot of them, and the ban only enhance the number of readers) should first think how to disseminate information of the site. Now it is easier to do, although Charter-labeled leaflets and printouts also work.

Solidarity has always been the most effective mean against injustice. "Charter-97" needs it more than ever.

- What would you like to wish the editorial office of "Charter-97"?

- This is other challenge, the Charter will come out with honour. Such experiences have always made the staff and the Charter team stronger. They opened up new perspectives.

We should use repressions of the regime to find new opportunities and gain influence.

I'd like to wish courage, fortitude and effective work.

It will be recalled that on January 24 Lukashenka blocked an independent information source Charter97.org. The first Deputy Minister of Information Ihar Lutski confirmed the blocking access.

One can you the instruction to bypass the blocking:

- The easiest way to read Charter'97

- How to bypass the blocking of the website "Charter-97"

- How to bypass the blocking on Android and iOS

- Change DNS on your computer and read the Charter

Detailed instructions on how to bypass the blocking of Charter97.org are here.

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