Belarus is on the verge of financial crisis. The current Belarusian government, notorious for its repressive regime and human rights violations, has turned to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to ask for a Stabilization Loan.

This Loan is Lukashenko’s last hope to rescue the Belarusian economy and its authoritarian rule. For us Belarusians, however, it is a unique opportunity to force through democratic change in our country. After the falsified presidential elections on 19 December 2010, thousands of peaceful protesters took it to the streets of Minsk. They were brutally beaten and detained by special forces, including the majority of the presidential candidates. Recently, another 1,700 people were arrested for their participation in silent marches on June 15, 19, 22, and July 3 and 6 2011.

IMF loans always come with strict economic conditionalities. But the Fund has never raised any democratic concerns. Now, it is time for the IMF to reconsider and to  impose political conditionalities as well. No more money to support the last dictatorship of Europe!

We urge the IMF to address the democratic concerns of Belarus and not to provide a Stabilization Loan until the Belarusian authorities initiate immediate change – as outlined in the petition letter.

Support the Belarusian people and learn more about the situation in Belarus. Help us to reach the IMF decision-makers and make sure our message is delivered: sign the attached petition letter, raise awareness or take action in your community!