The International Association of Physics Students represents thousands of physics students around the world, and is committed to the well-being of our member community. Students’ rights form the foundation of academic development and civic engagement. Therefore, it is the responsibility of IAPS to address matters which impede upon these rights.
IAPS is deeply concerned with the infringement of fundamental human and civil rights following the recent presidential election in Belarus. A culture of fear has been imposed upon academics who criticised policies of the current government. Members of the scientific community who signed an open letter against the ongoing violence have been intimidated by the head of the Belarusian Academy of Science. Rights of thousands of peaceful Belarusians have been violated through unprecedented physical violence, restriction of internet access and suppression of freedom of speech.
We are troubled by the implication of these events on the educational and academic activities of fellow students. IAPS stands in solidarity with the Belarusian scientific community and supports their call for an end to violence and the arrests of peaceful protestors.
The Executive Committee of the International Association of Physics Students
The International Association of Physics Students (IAPS), as its Charter states, is an international, student-run educational association, which aims to encourage physics students in their academic and professional growth by developing an ever-growing worldwide community within which peaceful relations are established in a collaborative, diverse and friendly social environment.
You can read the Original Statement from the People of the Republic of Belarus: https://scienceby2020.github.io/#en
Things We Can Do As Students:
1. Write (open) letters of support.
2. Members can sign this open letter in support of Belarusian scientists who are now under administrative pressure for their civil stance: Statement in support of Belarusian scientists: https://forms.gle/VHw7X4sgn7fLxtqq9
3. If your university has contacts or partnerships with education officials at Belarusian universities, please use them to express solidarity with protesting students and concerns with lawless repressions;
4. Spread the word about the situation in Belarus / Belarusian academia with the help of local media, student organizations, public events at your university;
5. Donate to Belarus Solidarity Foundation: https://www.facebook.com/donate/759400044849707/1523380014538448/
To read more about the latest events in English, please follow these links:
https://www.cbc.ca/news/world/belarus-students-protest-1.5707670