Belarus’ Permanent Representative in Geneva reported on enforced disappearances of migrants

On June 20th, 2025, Larysa Belskaya, the Permanent Representative of the Republic of Belarus to the UN Office and Other International Organisations in Geneva, spoke during an interactive dialogue with Gehad Madi, the UN Special Rapporteur on the Human Rights of Migrants, which took place during the 59th session of the UN Human Rights Council, sb.by reports with reference to Belarus’ Foreign Ministry

“Irregular migration is associated with risks that are exacerbated by the unjustified militarisation of borders and deliberate disregard for international asylum standards. Belarus is facing the consequences of this policy for migrants at its borders with Lithuania, Latvia, and Poland. Victims of violent ‘pushback’ who are in need of medical and other assistance are regularly recorded on Belarusian territory. Migrants often become victims of preventable deaths as a result of ill-treatment. In the last four years, over 80 migrant deaths have been recorded in Belarus, with more than 15 cases occurring just this year,” Ms. Belskaya emphasised in her speech.

Belarusian investigative authorities are looking into incidents of violence and rights violations against migrants transiting to the European Union. Testimonies of victims indicate that in neighbouring countries, filtration points were established where detainees were subjected to beatings, had their money and phones confiscated, and were subsequently pushed onto Belarusian territory.

The Permanent Representative of Belarus urged the audience to keep their attention focused and respond appropriately to deaths at the EU borders and to help curb abuses and violations of the human rights of migrants.

“Belarus is interested in co-operation with the Special Rapporteur and is ready for a pragmatic dialogue with neighbouring countries, including for joint investigations of deaths and disappearances. We hope that our neighbours will move away from confrontation, show common sense and political will to restore trust and co-operation in the field of joint border management,” Ms. Belskaya summed up.