The 1996 Constitution of Belarus, which was adopted by unconstitutional means, remains in force. The President has excessive power and continues to rule the country by presidential decree.
The independence of the judiciary is seriously threatened by the poor conditions of service and the influence of the President on the appointment and dismissal of judges. Individual lawyers face improper influence and harassment. President Lukashenko won the presidential elections on 9 September 2001, thereby securing another five year term, in a process clearly flawed.
Attacks on Justice 2002 – Belarus [full text, PDF]