EU renews Belarus sanctions

The EU has renewed its remaining sanctions against Belarus for 1 year, until 28 February 2018. The sanctions include an arms embargo, and a travel ban and asset freeze on 4 people listed in connection with the disappearances of 2 opposition politicians, 1 businessman, and 1 journalist in 1999/2000. Renewing the measures, the EU Council reiterated that “tangible steps taken by Belarus to respect universal fundamental freedoms, rule of law, and human rights” will be key to the future of EU policy towards the country. In February 2016, the EU lifted most of its sanctions against Belarus (see previous blog).

See Council Regulation 2017/331 amending Council Regulation 765/2006 and Council Decision 2017/350 amending Council Decision 2012/642/CFSP. The EU’s notice to listed people is here.