Statement by the Permanent Representative of the Republic of Belarus to the United Nations Office and other International Organizations in Geneva L.Belskaya at the interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the human rights of migrants (June 20, 2025, Geneva)

We welcome and thank Mr. Madi for his research and report. We share many of the assessments and conclusions of the Special Rapporteur.

Irregular migration is associated with risks that are exacerbated by the unjustified militarization of borders and a deliberate departure from international asylum standards. Belarus faces the consequences of such policies for migrants at the borders with Lithuania, Latvia, and Poland.

Victims of brutal "pushback" who require medical and other assistance are regularly recorded on Belarusian territory. Migrants often become victims of preventable deaths as a result of cruel treatment. Thus, over the past 4 years, more than 80 cases of deaths of migrants forced into the territory of Belarus have been documented, more than 15 this year.

Investigative bodies are investigating cases of violence and violations of the rights of migrants transiting to the European Union. Testimonies of victims indicate that filtration points have been set up in neighboring countries, where detainees were beaten, had their money and phones taken away, and were then pushed out onto our territory.

We urge you to focus on and respond appropriately to cases of deaths at EU borders and to help stop abuses and violations of migrants' human rights.

Belarus is interested in cooperating with the Special Rapporteur and is ready for a pragmatic dialogue with neighboring countries, including for joint investigations into cases of deaths and disappearances.

We hope that our neighbors will move away from confrontation, show common sense and political will to restore trust and cooperation in the area of ​​joint border management.

Thank you for your attention.