- Joined
- Mar 3, 2021
In a move that has drawn international condemnation, Belarusian President Alyaksandr Lukashenko issued a decree that effectively prevents Belarusians living abroad from renewing their passports.
Under the new rule, citizens must return to Belarus to extend the validity of their travel documents, a requirement that has left many expatriates in a state of despair and fear of criminal repercussions.
The new regulation has far-reaching implications, affecting not just the individuals but also their families.
"This will not only make it difficult for families to secure citizenship and travel documents for their children, but it will also result in Belarusians abroad losing control over their properties and homes in Belarus," the U.S. Department of State warned in its statement.
Under the new rule, citizens must return to Belarus to extend the validity of their travel documents, a requirement that has left many expatriates in a state of despair and fear of criminal repercussions.
The new regulation has far-reaching implications, affecting not just the individuals but also their families.
"This will not only make it difficult for families to secure citizenship and travel documents for their children, but it will also result in Belarusians abroad losing control over their properties and homes in Belarus," the U.S. Department of State warned in its statement.