For Free and Fair Media in Belarus

This report is the result of an assessment and advocacy mission carried out in Belarus from 20-24 September 2009. The mission was undertaken by a del- egation of press freedom and media development organisations with long- term relations with media workers and institutions in Belarus.

In Belarus, the mission delegation met with Belarusian government repre- sentatives and state and non-state media organisations, in order to express and exchange opinions on the present situation of independent media, press freedom, freedom of expression and access to information in Belarus.

Based on the knowledge and expertise of the participating organisations in reference to international media standards, the purpose of the mission was to undertake an assessment of the present media environment and freedom of expression situation in Belarus. In the same light, the purpose of the report is to ensure that press freedom and media reform remain at the heart of the on-going negotiations between the European Union (EU) and the Belarusian government – both in regard to the current suspension of certain EU sanctions against Belarus, the longer term Eastern Partnership Initiative and the Human Rights Dialogue.