On June 19, 2023, the UN Human Rights Committee (HRC) officially registered a complaint filed by Dmitry Laevsky, an attorney whose license was revoked. The complaint was submitted on December 19, 2022, and is devoted to the deprivation of Mr Laevsky’s right to practice his profession. This announcement was made by the lawyer himself through his Telegram channel.
It should be noted that since February 8, 2023, Belarusians have been deprived of the opportunity to file complaints with the HRC. Mr Laevsky notes that he managed to file a complaint prior to Belarus denouncing the Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.
"The news is symbolic as it comes on the eve of the official Advocacy Day, which currently coincides with the day of the Prosecutor's Office in Belarus. The registration of this complaint is significant, indicating that the proceedings have been initiated. Following an examination of the complaint, the HRC will provide an expert assessment to determine whether the revocation of a lawyer's right to practice law for advocating on behalf of a client in court aligns with the state's international obligations. Justice remains essential even after the passage of time, not just for me and the defense of my violated rights, but also for all those who have been unjustly deprived of their profession. It is also crucial for the future recovery of the legal profession and the restoration of trust within the Bar," Mr. Laevsky stated.
It should be noted that since February 8, 2023, Belarusians have been deprived of the opportunity to file complaints with the HRC. Mr Laevsky notes that he managed to file a complaint prior to Belarus denouncing the Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.
"The news is symbolic as it comes on the eve of the official Advocacy Day, which currently coincides with the day of the Prosecutor's Office in Belarus. The registration of this complaint is significant, indicating that the proceedings have been initiated. Following an examination of the complaint, the HRC will provide an expert assessment to determine whether the revocation of a lawyer's right to practice law for advocating on behalf of a client in court aligns with the state's international obligations. Justice remains essential even after the passage of time, not just for me and the defense of my violated rights, but also for all those who have been unjustly deprived of their profession. It is also crucial for the future recovery of the legal profession and the restoration of trust within the Bar," Mr. Laevsky stated.
