a. Yes

Comments: In the presidential elections the whole country is one constituency. When the members of the House of Representatives are elected the country is divided into 110 constituencies.
Source: Code on Elections, chapter 2.
Last updated: Wed, 17 Jul 2002 08:40:19 GMT

c. The Electoral Management Body

Comments: The drafts of the constituencies are pre-formed by the local organs of the executive power.
Source: Code of Elections, article 16.
Last updated: Mon, 09 Sep 2002 12:05:30 GMT

a. "Equality" of population

c. Compactness of constituencies

Comments: a) Approximately equal number of voters. The difference between the number of registered voters in different constituencies must not exceed 10%.
Source: Code on Elections, article 15.
Last updated: Wed, 17 Jul 2002 08:43:08 GMT

d. Number of voters in last election

Source: Code on Elections, article 15.
Last updated: Wed, 17 Jul 2002 08:43:55 GMT

d. Electoral management body

Source: Code on Elections, article 16.
Last updated: Mon, 09 Sep 2002 12:12:40 GMT

c. Changes in numbers of registered voters

Comments: If the number of registered voters exceeds more than 10% of the established average number of voters in constituencies of the Republic.
Source: Code on Elections, articles 15-16 and 20-21.
Last updated: Wed, 21 Aug 2002 19:27:43 GMT

a. Name and Title: Attila Vincze
b. Job Title: reserchear
c. Organisation: ACEEEO
d. Contact Address. Budapest, V. Alkotmány street 25. Hungary Postal Address: Budapest, P.O. BOX: 81. 1450 Hungary
e. Telephone: + 36 1 354 02 65
f. Facsimile: + 36 1 354 02 64
g. Email: Attila.Vincze@gmx.net

Last updated: 2005-03-25 11:48:39 UTC

b. Optional referendum

c. Citizens' initiative

d. Agenda initiative

e. Recall

Source: Art 72 et seq, 97, 99 138 et seq. Constitution of Belarus; Electoral Code Of The Republic Of Belarus Adopted by the Chamber of Representatives: on January 24, 2000, Approved by the Council of the Republic: on January 31, 2000 (hereinafter Electoral Code)
Last updated: 2005-03-25 11:49:49 UTC

e. Not applicable

Source: Art 72 et seq, 97, 99 138 et seq. Constitution of Belarus; Electoral Code Of The Republic Of Belarus Adopted by the Chamber of Representatives: on January 24, 2000, Approved by the Council of the Republic: on January 31, 2000 (hereinafter Electoral Code)
Last updated: 2005-03-25 11:50:51 UTC

a. Constitutional

b. Specific laws/legislation

Source: Art 72 et seq, 97, 99 138 et seq. Constitution of Belarus; Electoral Code
Last updated: 2005-03-25 11:51:45 UTC

a. Constitutional

b. Specific laws/legislation

Source: Art 72 et seq, 97, 99 138 et seq. Constitution of Belarus; Electoral Code
Last updated: 2005-03-25 11:53:05 UTC

a. Constitutional

b. Specific laws/legislation

Source: Art 72 et seq, 97, 99 138 et seq. Constitution of Belarus; Electoral Code
Last updated: 2005-03-25 11:53:26 UTC

a. Constitutional

b. Specific laws/legislation

Source: Art 72 et seq, 97, 99 138 et seq. Constitution of Belarus; Electoral Code
Last updated: 2005-03-25 11:54:03 UTC

e. Not applicable

Source: Art 73 et seq. Constitution of Belarus; Electoral Code Of The Republic Of Belarus; See furthermore von Steinsdorff, Das politische System Weißrußlands In: Ismayr: Die politischen Systeme Osteuropas, 2.ed, 2004, pp. 451 et seq.
Last updated: 2005-03-25 11:55:41 UTC

a. Constitutional

b. Specific laws/legislation

Source: Art 73 et seq. Constitution of Belarus; Electoral Code Of The Republic Of Belarus; See furthermore von Steinsdorff, Das politische System Weißrußlands In: Ismayr: Die politischen Systeme Osteuropas, 2.ed, 2004, pp. 451 et seq.
Last updated: 2005-03-25 11:56:23 UTC

b. Specific laws/legislation

Source: Art 73 et seq. Constitution of Belarus; Electoral Code Of The Republic Of Belarus; See furthermore von Steinsdorff, Das politische System Weißrußlands In: Ismayr: Die politischen Systeme Osteuropas, 2.ed, 2004, pp. 451 et seq.
Last updated: 2005-03-25 11:57:40 UTC

e. Other (specify)

Comments: Signature collection for agenda initiative is not governed by law.
Source: Electoral Code
Last updated: 2005-03-29 11:38:14 UTC

c. Requirement for signature collectors to be registered electors

e. Other (specify)

Comments: Collection of electors' signatures shall be performed only by the members of the initiative group. A signature list must contain only the signatures of the electors who live in one residence area within the territory of the district in which the question has been initiated to recall a deputy. The electors supporting the proposal to initiate the question of recalling a deputy shall indicate in the list of signatures his surname, name and patronymic name, the date of birth, the series and number of passport, or the requisites of the certificate of the person substituting it and the date of signing, and shall sign. Signatures shall be enumerated. Responsibility for authenticity of the data, contained in the signature list shall be borne by the member of the initiative group who collected the signatures. Personal autograph signature of the member of the initiative group, who collected the signatures, shall be put to every signature list in the presence of the Chairman or Deputy Chairman of the town (town subordinated to Oblast or region), settlement or rural executive committee, the head or the deputy head of the town district administration in the territory of which the signatures were collected and in towns and urbanised settlements where no town or settlement executive committees are formed – in the presence of the chairman or the deputy chairman of the district executive committee and certified immediately after that with the seal of this body. An elector shall be entitled to put his signature only in one signature list and only for himself personally.
Source: Art 136 Electoral Code
Last updated: 2005-03-29 11:47:35 UTC

b. Sample of signatures checked

Source: Art 61, 116 Electoral Code
Last updated: 2005-03-29 11:52:13 UTC

b. Sample of signatures checked

Source: Art 61, 116 Electoral Code
Last updated: 2005-03-29 11:52:42 UTC

b. Sample of signatures checked

Source: Art 61, 137 electoral Code
Last updated: 2005-03-29 11:53:29 UTC

a. Agency/department responsible for the administration of direct democracy mechanisms

Source: Art 61 electoral code
Last updated: 2005-03-29 11:54:37 UTC

a. Agency/department responsible for the administration of direct democracy mechanisms

Source: Art 13, 48 Electoral Code
Last updated: 2005-03-29 12:25:51 UTC

a. Agency/department responsible for the administration of direct democracy mechanisms

Source: Art 13, 48 Electoral Code
Last updated: 2005-03-29 12:25:31 UTC

a. Agency/department responsible for the administration of direct democracy mechanisms

Source: Art 13, 48 electoral Code
Last updated: 2005-03-29 12:25:13 UTC

a. Information booklets

c. Radio broadcasts

d. TV broadcasts

f. Website

Source: http://mail.ncpi.gov.by http://www.rec.gov.by/
Last updated: 2005-03-29 12:41:08 UTC

b. Specific laws/legislation

Source: Art 73 et seq. Constitution of Belarus; Electoral Code Of The Republic Of Belarus; See furthermore von Steinsdorff, Das politische System Weißrußlands In: Ismayr: Die politischen Systeme Osteuropas, 2.ed, 2004, pp. 451 et seq.
Last updated: 2005-03-25 11:58:32 UTC

c. Radio broadcasts

d. TV broadcasts

e. Press advertisements

f. Website

Source: http://www.rec.gov.by/ http://mail.ncpi.gov.by/
Last updated: 2005-03-29 12:43:07 UTC

c. Radio broadcasts

d. TV broadcasts

f. Website

Source: http://www.rec.gov.by/ http://mail.ncpi.gov.by
Last updated: 2005-03-29 12:44:53 UTC

a. Compulsory registration of campaigners and campaign groups

d. Restrictions on the sources of contributions

e. Disclosure requirements

Source: Art 114, 115 electoral code
Last updated: 2005-03-29 12:52:05 UTC

a. Compulsory registration of campaigners and campaign groups

d. Restrictions on the sources of contributions

e. Disclosure requirements

Comments: only citzen's initiative is governed by law
Source: Art 114, 115 electoral code
Last updated: 2005-03-29 12:53:36 UTC

a. Compulsory registration of campaigners and campaign groups

Source: Art 134 et seq. electoral code
Last updated: 2005-03-29 13:06:27 UTC

a. Fixed time period (specify)

Comments: Election campaign is the period from the day of official publication of the decision of the President of the Republic of Belarus or of the state body authorised by the Constitution of the Republic of Belarus or by this Code on the appointment of elections as from the day of official publication of the election results;
Source: Art 155 Electoral Code
Last updated: 2005-03-29 13:23:12 UTC

a. Fixed time period (specify)

Comments: Election campaign is the period from the day of official publication of the decision of the President of the Republic of Belarus or of the state body authorised by the Constitution of the Republic of Belarus or by this Code on the appointment of elections as from the day of official publication of the election results;
Source: Art 155 electoral code
Last updated: 2005-03-29 13:26:38 UTC

a. Fixed time period (specify)

Comments: Election campaign is the period from the day of official publication of the decision of the President of the Republic of Belarus or of the state body authorised by the Constitution of the Republic of Belarus or by this Code on the appointment of elections as from the day of official publication of the election results;
Source: Art 155 electoral code
Last updated: 2005-03-29 13:29:10 UTC

c. All campaign organisations

Source: Art 46 electoral code
Last updated: 2005-03-29 13:35:55 UTC

c. All campaign organisations

Comments: in case of a citizen's initiative
Source: Art 46 electoiral code
Last updated: 2005-03-29 13:38:36 UTC

b. Specific laws/legislation

Source: Art 73 et seq. Constitution of Belarus; Electoral Code Of The Republic Of Belarus; See furthermore von Steinsdorff, Das politische System Weißrußlands In: Ismayr: Die politischen Systeme Osteuropas, 2.ed, 2004, pp. 451 et seq.
Last updated: 2005-03-25 11:59:05 UTC

c. All campaign organisations

Source: Art 45 et seq., 149 electoral code
Last updated: 2005-03-29 13:40:49 UTC

a. Financial grant

b. Free media access

Source: Art 45 et seq. electoral code
Last updated: 2005-03-29 13:51:28 UTC

a. Financial grant

b. Free media access

Comments: in case of citzen's initiative
Source: Art 45 et seq. electoral code
Last updated: 2005-03-29 13:51:50 UTC

a. Financial grant

b. Free media access

Source: art 45 et seq. electoral code
Last updated: 2005-03-29 13:50:31 UTC

a. equality

Comments: This principle is violeted many times during the elections
Source: art 45 et seq., 114, 149 electoral code
Last updated: 2005-03-29 13:54:50 UTC

b. No

Comments: The law does not allow to campaign, however the favoritism of many journailsts towards the Government ensures that Government has the opportunity to widespreadly present its opinion about a question.
Source: Art 45 et seq. electoral code
Last updated: 2005-03-29 14:01:13 UTC

Comments: no foreign assests are permitted Foreign citizens are not entitled to take part in agitation.
Source: art 45 et seq. electoral code
Last updated: 2005-03-29 14:13:43 UTC

b. Signatories must be registered electors in a specific electoral district

Source: Art 129 et seq. electoral code
Last updated: 2005-03-29 14:16:29 UTC

b. Optional referendum 1994
c. Citizens' initiative 1996
d. Agenda initiative 1994
e. Recall 1994

Source: : Art 72 et seq, 97, 99 138 et seq. Constitution of Belarus; Electoral Code Of The Republic Of Belarus; See furthermore von Steinsdorff, Das politische System Weißrußlands In: Ismayr: Die politischen Systeme Osteuropas, 2.ed, 2004, pp. 451 et seq. To constitutional amandments adopted by a referendum see DECISION OF THE CONSTITUTIONAL COURT OF THE REPUBLIC OF BELARUS On the compliance with the Constitution and laws of the Republic of Belarus of paragraphs 2.2, 2.5 and 3 of the Decree of the Supreme Council of the Republic of Belarus of 6 September 1996 "On the holding of a national referendum in the Republic of Belarus and measures for its guarantee
Last updated: 2005-03-25 12:18:38 UTC

b. Optional referendum 1994
c. Citizens' initiative 1994
d. Agenda initiative 1994
e. Recall 1994

Comments: The administrative framework was introduced on the basis of the Constitution in 1994, the new Electoral Code from 2000 and the Law on Central Commission of the Republic of Belarus on Holding Elections and Republican Referenda, N 137-3 of April 30, 1998, are now the legal basis of the administrative framework.
Last updated: 2005-03-25 12:18:16 UTC

b. Independent electoral commission

Comments: Central Commission of the Republic of Belarus on Holding Elections and Republican Referenda
Source: Law on CCE, Electoral Code
Last updated: 2005-03-25 12:19:56 UTC

a. Yes

Source: Art 1 Law on CCE, Art 33 Electoral Code
Last updated: 2005-03-25 12:21:19 UTC

d. Not applicable

Comments: Belarus is a unitary state
Source: Art 1 Constitution
Last updated: 2005-03-25 12:22:10 UTC

d. Not applicable

Comments: Belarus is a unitary state
Source: Art 1 Constitution
Last updated: 2005-03-25 12:22:39 UTC

d. Not applicable

Comments: Belarus is a unitary state.
Source: Art 1 Constitution
Last updated: 2005-03-25 12:23:07 UTC

d. Not applicable

Comments: Belarus is a unitary state
Source: Art 1 Constitution
Last updated: 2005-03-25 12:25:17 UTC

d. Not applicable

Comments: Belarus is a unitary state
Source: Art 1 Constitution
Last updated: 2005-03-25 12:25:56 UTC

c. No

Source: Art 73 et seq Constitution, 125 et seq. Electoral Code
Last updated: 2005-03-25 12:28:11 UTC

a. Yes, in all municipalities/districts/communes

Source: Art 73 et seq Constitution, 125 et seq. Electoral Code
Last updated: 2005-03-25 12:28:41 UTC

c. No

Source: Art 73 et seq Constitution, 125 et seq. Electoral Code
Last updated: 2005-03-25 12:29:15 UTC

c. No

Source: Art 73 et seq Constitution, 125 et seq. Electoral Code
Last updated: 2005-03-25 12:30:54 UTC

a. Yes, in all municipalities/districts/communes

Source: Art 73 et seq Constitution, 125 et seq. Electoral Code
Last updated: 2005-03-25 12:31:18 UTC

k. None

Source: 73 et seq Constitution
Last updated: 2005-03-25 12:32:17 UTC

a. Constitutional amendments

b. Adoption of international treaties

c. Transfer of authority to international bodies

d. National sovereignty, national self-determination

f. Devolution

g. Civil service

i. Other public policy issues

j. Other (specify)

Comments: The following subjects cannot be subjects of referenda: any questions, which may lead to violation of the territorial integrity of the Republic of Belarus; any questions pertaining to election and dismissal of the President of the Republic of Belarus and appointment (election or dismissal) of officials whose appointment (election or dismissal) is within the competence of the President of the Republic of Belarus and the Chambers of the National Assembly of the Republic of Belarus; any questions on adopting and amending the budget and introducing, changing and cancelling taxes; and any questions on amnesty or pardon.
Source: Art 112 Electoral Code
Last updated: 2005-03-25 12:33:35 UTC

h. Taxes and public expenditure commitments

i. Other public policy issues

j. Other (specify)

Comments: The following s are excluded from referenda: any questions, which may lead to violation of the territorial integrity of the Republic of Belarus; any questions pertaining to election and dismissal of the President of the Republic of Belarus and appointment (election or dismissal) of officials whose appointment (election or dismissal) is within the competence of the President of the Republic of Belarus and the Chambers of the National Assembly of the Republic of Belarus; any questions on adopting and amending the budget and introducing, changing and cancelling taxes; and any questions on amnesty or pardon.
Source: Art 112 Electoral Code
Last updated: 2005-03-25 12:35:39 UTC

e. None

Source: Art 125 Electoral Code
Last updated: 2005-03-25 12:36:13 UTC

c. President

d. Legislative majority

e. Registered electors

Comments: National referenda shall be called on the initiative of the President of the Republic of Belarus, as well as on the initiative of the Council of the Republic or House of Representatives, which is taken at their separate sittings by a majority of the full number of deputies of each house, or on the initiative of no fewer than 450,000 citizens eligible to vote, including no fewer than 30,000 citizens from each of the regions (oblasts) and city of Minsk.
Source: Art 73 Constitution
Last updated: 2005-03-25 12:37:51 UTC

g. Not applicable

Source: Art 72 et seq, 97, 99 138 et seq. Constitution of Belarus; Electoral Code…
Last updated: 2005-03-25 12:40:00 UTC

c. President

d. Legislature

e. Registered electors

Comments: : The initiator of a referendum is entitled to draft the question.
Source: Art 113 et seq. Electoral Code
Last updated: 2005-03-25 12:40:58 UTC

f. Not applicable

Source: Art 72 et seq, 97, 99 138 et seq. Constitution of Belarus; Electoral Code Of The Republic Of Belarus; See furthermore von Steinsdorff, Das politische System Weißrußlands In: Ismayr: Die politischen Systeme Osteuropas, 2.ed, 2004, pp. 451 et seq.
Last updated: 2005-03-25 12:46:42 UTC

d. The full text of the proposal

Source: Art 114 Electoral Code
Last updated: 2005-03-25 12:47:52 UTC

f. Not applicable

Last updated: 2005-03-25 12:48:43 UTC

c. President

Source: Art 117 Electoral Code
Last updated: 2005-03-25 12:49:14 UTC

d. Not applicable X

Last updated: 2005-03-25 12:49:46 UTC

a. Turnout quorum X

Comments: The referendum shall be considered as held if more than a half of the citizens included in the lists of citizens, having the right to take part in the referendum, have taken part in the vote.
Source: Art 121 Electoral Code
Last updated: 2005-03-25 12:52:59 UTC

e. Not applicable

Last updated: 2005-03-25 12:54:18 UTC

a. Simple majority (>50%)

Comments: The decision shall be considered as adopted by the referendum, if it was supported by more than half of the total number of voters, who have taken part in the vote in the Republic of Belarus. The decision on the adoption, alteration and amendment of the Constitution of the Republic of Belarus shall be deemed adopted if it was supported by the majority of the citizens included in the ballot lists.
Source: Art 121 Electoral Code
Last updated: 2005-03-25 12:55:12 UTC

f. Other

Comments: Both kind of democratic mechanisms are regulated by the same law, therefore the provisions do not differ.
Source: Art 1 Electoral Code
Last updated: 2005-03-25 12:56:24 UTC

d. Not applicable

Last updated: 2005-03-25 12:57:02 UTC

a. Always

Comments: the referendum was valid, and a decision is passed, it is binding.
Source: Art 121 Electoral Code
Last updated: 2005-03-25 12:57:41 UTC

a. Constitutional amendments

b. Legislative proposals

Source: Art 97, 99, 138 et seq. Constitution
Last updated: 2005-03-25 12:58:44 UTC

a. Constitutional amendments

b. Legislative proposals

Source: Art 97, 99, 138 et seq. Constitution
Last updated: 2005-03-25 12:59:23 UTC

h. Taxes and public expenditure commitments

i. Other public policy issues

j. Other (specify)

Comments: : Followings are excluded from a citizen’s initiative any questions, which may lead to violation of the territorial integrity of the Republic of Belarus; any questions pertaining to election and dismissal of the President of the Republic of Belarus and appointment (election or dismissal) of officials whose appointment (election or dismissal) is within the competence of the President of the Republic of Belarus and the Chambers of the National Assembly of the Republic of Belarus; any questions on adopting and amending the budget and introducing, changing and cancelling taxes; and any questions on amnesty or pardon.
Source: Art 112 Electoral Code
Last updated: 2005-03-25 13:00:19 UTC

k. None

Source: Art 112 Electoral Code
Last updated: 2005-03-25 13:00:51 UTC

a. A number of individuals

Source: Art 73, 97, 99, Constitution, Steindorff, op. cit., p. 452.
Last updated: 2005-03-25 13:01:26 UTC

a. A number of individuals

Source: Art 73, 97, 99, Constitution, Steindorff, op. cit., p. 452.
Last updated: 2005-03-25 13:02:35 UTC

c. Full proposed text

d. Other (specify)

Comments: The initiative group shall lodge with the Central Commission an application to register the initiative group and the question (draft decision), which it proposes to submit to the referendum. The application shall be appended with the minutes of the meeting held by the initiative group, which took a decision to form the initiative group, to put forth the initiative to hold the referendum, to approve the question (draft decision) proposed for submission to the referendum, to elect the initiative group Chairman and co-ordinators for the Oblasts and the City of Minsk, the list of participants in the meeting signed by the chairman and the secretary of the meeting as well as the list of the members of the initiative group who agreed to take part in the initiative group, which shall be confirmed by their own signatures with the authenticity of the signatures subject to notary certification.
Source: Art 114 Electoral Code
Last updated: 2005-03-25 13:03:31 UTC

e. Other (specify)

Comments: The CCE is responsible for conducting referenda. The wording of the question may be amended only with the consent of the initiative group, and the minutes of the meeting of the group, confirming such consent, shall be submitted. So it follows from the wording of the law that the CCE decides about the question, however this decision presupposes consent of the initiator. This rule is, however, applicable only for initiative group of electors. The whole aim of the law is to protect the initiator of a referendum, so it seems to be applicable for other initiators, as well. If the initiative is successful and the President of the Republic announces a referendum, he/she is entitled to determine final form of the initiative.
Source: Art 114, 117 Electoral Code, 97, 99, 138 et seq. Constitution
Last updated: 2005-03-25 13:04:31 UTC

a. Proponents of the initiative

Comments: The CCE is responsible for conducting referenda. The wording of the question may be amended only with the consent of the initiative group, and the minutes of the meeting of the group, confirming such consent, shall be submitted. So it follows from the wording of the law that the CCE decides about the question, however this decision presupposes consent of the initiator. This rule is, however, applicable only for initiative group of electors. The whole aim of the law is to protect the initiator of a referendum, so it seems to be applicable for other initiators, as well. If the initiative is successful and the President of the Republic announces a referendum, he/she is entitled to determine final form of the initiative.
Source: 114, 117 Electoral Code, 97, 99, 138 et seq. Constitution
Last updated: 2005-03-25 13:05:41 UTC

e. Incomprehensibility

Comments: This particular issue is not regulated; however the comprehensibility is a necessary condition. The initiative have to be worded by the initiative group in a clear and definite manner so that it shall be possible to give an unambiguous answer to such question.
Source: Art 114 Electoral Code
Last updated: 2005-03-25 13:06:25 UTC

a. Spelling/grammatical checks

b. Drafting actual text for legal measure

Source: Art 114 Electoral Code
Last updated: 2005-03-25 13:07:28 UTC

a. An automatic check is part of the initiative process

Comments: The documents pertaining to the holding of the republican referendum, submitted by the initiative group, and the question (draft decision) offered for the referendum shall be submitted by the Central Commission for consideration and conclusion to the Ministry of Justice and the Prosecution Department of the Republic of Belarus, which shall verify the compliance of the question (draft decision) with the legislation of the Republic of Belarus and observance of the procedure of formation of the initiative group.
Source: Art 114 Electoral Code
Last updated: 2005-03-25 13:08:17 UTC

a. Government

b. Independent electoral commission

f. Other (specify)

Comments: The documents pertaining to the holding of the republican referendum, submitted by the initiative group, and the question (draft decision) offered for the referendum shall be submitted by the Central Commission for consideration and conclusion to the Ministry of Justice and the Prosecution Department of the Republic of Belarus, which shall verify the compliance of the question (draft decision) with the legislation of the Republic of Belarus and observance of the procedure of formation of the initiative group.
Source: Art 114 Electoral Code
Last updated: 2005-03-25 13:09:22 UTC

a. After its registration, before the collection of signatures

Source: Art 114 Electoral Code
Last updated: 2005-03-25 13:13:05 UTC

g. Not applicable

Comments: The possibility of an alternative proposal is not regulated by the law.
Source: Electoral Code
Last updated: 2005-03-25 13:14:20 UTC

d. Not at all

Comments: The possibility of an alternative proposal is not regulated by the law.
Source: Electoral Code
Last updated: 2005-03-25 13:14:49 UTC

e. Not applicable

Last updated: 2005-03-25 13:15:15 UTC

f. Not applicable

Last updated: 2005-03-25 13:15:40 UTC

e. Other (specify)

Comments: The President of the Republic.
Source: Art 117 Electoral Code
Last updated: 2005-03-25 13:17:04 UTC

a. Within a certain time limit (specify)

Comments: The date of the referendum shall be set not later than three months from the date of the decree of the President of the Republic of Belarus on appointment of the referendum
Source: Art 117 Electoral Code
Last updated: 2005-03-25 13:17:40 UTC

a. Members of the national legislature

e. Members of provincial / local legislature bodies

Comments: A Deputy of the Chamber of Representatives or a Deputy of a Local Council of Deputies or a Member of the Council of the Republic can be recalled.
Source: Art 72 Constitution, Art 1, 129 et seq. Electoral Code
Last updated: 2005-03-25 13:18:39 UTC

b. Indictment

c. Conviction

d. Moral turpitude

f. Other (specify)

Comments: A deputy of the Chamber of Representatives or a deputy of a local Council of Deputies of the Republic of Belarus, who has not justified the trust of the voters, that has manifested itself in failure to execute the Deputy's duties as stipulated by law, in breaching the Constitution of the Republic of Belarus and of the laws of the Republic of Belarus and of acts of the President of the Republic of Belarus, in committing actions discrediting the deputy, may be recalled by the electors. Any member of the Council of the Republic, who has failed in the trust extended to him by neglecting the duties of the member of the Council of the Republic, violating the Constitution of the Republic of Belarus laws of the Republic of Belarus or acts of the President of the Republic of Belarus, or committing actions discrediting the member of the Council of the Republic may be recalled. The Council of Republic is a indirectly elected on the basis of territorial representation, therefore the recall of their members cannot be dealed as a direct democracy instrument
Source: Art 129, 143 Electoral Code
Last updated: 2005-03-25 13:19:23 UTC

Comments: The only restriction regarding a recall a deputy of the Chamber of Representatives or a deputy of a local Council of Deputies of the Republic of Belarus in relation to time is 45 days period for collecting the signatures to initiate the recall. It is to mention that a repeated initiation of the question of recalling a deputy on the same grounds within one year after the date of voting on recalling a deputy is not allowed.
Source: Art 135, 142 Electoral Code
Last updated: 2005-03-25 13:19:59 UTC

a. Within a certain time limit (specify)

Comments: The Central Commission, the respective territorial electoral commission shall be entitled, within 15 days after the date of receipt of necessary documents (records and signature lists), to make a selective or complete check of observance of the requirements of Section VIII of the Electoral Code when initiating the question of recalling a deputy. Upon establishing that the collection of the necessary number of signatures of electors and all other measures have been undertaken in accordance with the requirements of Section VIII of the Electoral Code, the Central Commission shall take a decision to appoint voting for recalling a deputy of the Chamber of Representatives, and the respective territorial electoral commission – to appoint voting to recall a deputy of the local Council of Deputies. The voting shall be appointed not earlier than one month and not later than two months after the date when the decision to appoint the voting was taken.
Source: Art 138 Electoral Code
Last updated: 2005-03-25 13:20:41 UTC

b. Separately and subsequently

Source: Art 141 Electoral Code
Last updated: 2005-03-25 13:21:14 UTC

a. Within 3 months

Comments: Within 3 months
Source: Art 56 Electoral Code
Last updated: 2005-03-25 13:22:05 UTC

a. Yes

Comments: it is not excluded by law
Source: electoral code
Last updated: 2005-03-25 13:22:47 UTC

a. Fixed number 450.000
b. Proportion of the electorate 10%

Comments: National referenda is called on the initiative of no fewer than 450,000 citizens eligible to vote, including no fewer than 30,000 citizens from each of the regions (oblasts) and city of Minsk. Local referenda are called by the relevant local representative bodies on their initiative or on the recommendation of no less than ten percent of the citizens who are eligible to vote and resident in the area concerned. The recall of deputies shall be exercised to the order and instances as determined by the law. The voting for the recall of a deputy is exercised to the order determined for the election of the deputy, and on the initiative of no less than 20 percent of the citizens eligible to vote and resident in the corresponding area. The House of Representatives considers draft laws submitted by no less than 150 thousand citizens of the Republic of Belarus, who are eligible to vote, to make amendments and alterations in the Constitution and give its interpretation The right of legislative initiative belongs to citizens who are eligible to vote, in a number of no less than 50,000. The issue of amending and supplementing the Constitution is considered by the chambers of the Parliament on the initiative of no fewer than 150,000 citizens of the Republic of Belarus who are eligible to vote.
Source: 72 73 et seq., 97, 99, 138 Constitution
Last updated: 2005-03-25 13:23:56 UTC

a. Fixed number 450.000
b. Proportion of the electorate 10%

Comments: National referenda is called on the initiative of no fewer than 450,000 citizens eligible to vote, including no fewer than 30,000 citizens from each of the regions (oblasts) and city of Minsk. Local referenda are called by the relevant local representative bodies on their initiative or on the recommendation of no less than ten percent of the citizens who are eligible to vote and resident in the area concerned. The recall of deputies shall be exercised to the order and instances as determined by the law. The voting for the recall of a deputy is exercised to the order determined for the election of the deputy, and on the initiative of no less than 20 percent of the citizens eligible to vote and resident in the corresponding area. The House of Representatives considers draft laws submitted by no less than 150 thousand citizens of the Republic of Belarus, who are eligible to vote, to make amendments and alterations in the Constitution and give its interpretation The right of legislative initiative belongs to citizens who are eligible to vote, in a number of no less than 50,000. The issue of amending and supplementing the Constitution is considered by the chambers of the Parliament on the initiative of no fewer than 150,000 citizens of the Republic of Belarus who are eligible to vote.
Source: Art 72 73 et seq., 97, 99, 138 Constitution
Last updated: 2005-03-25 13:24:41 UTC

a. Fixed number 450.000
b. Proportion of the electorate 10 %

Comments: National referenda is called on the initiative of no fewer than 450,000 citizens eligible to vote, including no fewer than 30,000 citizens from each of the regions (oblasts) and city of Minsk. Local referenda are called by the relevant local representative bodies on their initiative or on the recommendation of no less than ten percent of the citizens who are eligible to vote and resident in the area concerned. The recall of deputies shall be exercised to the order and instances as determined by the law. The voting for the recall of a deputy is exercised to the order determined for the election of the deputy, and on the initiative of no less than 20 percent of the citizens eligible to vote and resident in the corresponding area. The House of Representatives considers draft laws submitted by no less than 150 thousand citizens of the Republic of Belarus, who are eligible to vote, to make amendments and alterations in the Constitution and give its interpretation The right of legislative initiative belongs to citizens who are eligible to vote, in a number of no less than 50,000. The issue of amending and supplementing the Constitution is considered by the chambers of the Parliament on the initiative of no fewer than 150,000 citizens of the Republic of Belarus who are eligible to vote.
Source: Art 72 73 et seq., 97, 99, 138 Constitution
Last updated: 2005-03-25 13:25:25 UTC

a. Fixed number 150.000 or 50.000

Comments: National referenda is called on the initiative of no fewer than 450,000 citizens eligible to vote, including no fewer than 30,000 citizens from each of the regions (oblasts) and city of Minsk. Local referenda are called by the relevant local representative bodies on their initiative or on the recommendation of no less than ten percent of the citizens who are eligible to vote and resident in the area concerned. The recall of deputies shall be exercised to the order and instances as determined by the law. The voting for the recall of a deputy is exercised to the order determined for the election of the deputy, and on the initiative of no less than 20 percent of the citizens eligible to vote and resident in the corresponding area. The House of Representatives considers draft laws submitted by no less than 150 thousand citizens of the Republic of Belarus, who are eligible to vote, to make amendments and alterations in the Constitution and give its interpretation The right of legislative initiative belongs to citizens who are eligible to vote, in a number of no less than 50,000. The issue of amending and supplementing the Constitution is considered by the chambers of the Parliament on the initiative of no fewer than 150,000 citizens of the Republic of Belarus who are eligible to vote.
Source: Art 72 73 et seq., 97, 99, 138 Constitution
Last updated: 2005-03-25 13:26:27 UTC

a. Fixed time period (specify)

Comments: 2 months
Source: Art 115, 135 Electoral Code
Last updated: 2005-03-25 13:27:51 UTC

a. Fixed time period (specify)

Comments: 2 months
Source: Art 115, 135 Electoral Code
Last updated: 2005-03-25 13:28:26 UTC

a. Fixed time period (specify)

Comments: 2 months
Source: Art 115, 135 Electoral Code
Last updated: 2005-03-25 13:28:51 UTC

b. Other (specify)

Comments: No time is fixed
Source: Art 115, 135 Electoral Code
Last updated: 2005-03-25 13:29:16 UTC

b. Signatories must be registered electors in a specific electoral district

Comments: National referenda is called on the initiative of no fewer than 450,000 citizens eligible to vote, including no fewer than 30,000 citizens from each of the regions (oblasts) and city of Minsk. Local referenda are called by the relevant local representative bodies on their initiative or on the recommendation of no less than ten percent of the citizens who are eligible to vote and resident in the area concerned. The recall of deputies shall be exercised to the order and instances as determined by the law. The voting for the recall of a deputy is exercised to the order determined for the election of the deputy, and on the initiative of no less than 20 percent of the citizens eligible to vote and resident in the corresponding area. The House of Representatives considers draft laws submitted by no less than 150 thousand citizens of the Republic of Belarus, who are eligible to vote, to make amendments and alterations in the Constitution and give its interpretation The right of legislative initiative belongs to citizens who are eligible to vote, in a number of no less than 50,000. The issue of amending and supplementing the Constitution is considered by the chambers of the Parliament on the initiative of no fewer than 150,000 citizens of the Republic of Belarus who are eligible to vote.
Source: Art 72 73 et seq., 97, 99, 138 Constitution
Last updated: 2005-03-25 13:30:21 UTC

b. Signatories must be registered electors in a specific electoral district

Comments: National referenda is called on the initiative of no fewer than 450,000 citizens eligible to vote, including no fewer than 30,000 citizens from each of the regions (oblasts) and city of Minsk. Local referenda are called by the relevant local representative bodies on their initiative or on the recommendation of no less than ten percent of the citizens who are eligible to vote and resident in the area concerned. The recall of deputies shall be exercised to the order and instances as determined by the law. The voting for the recall of a deputy is exercised to the order determined for the election of the deputy, and on the initiative of no less than 20 percent of the citizens eligible to vote and resident in the corresponding area. The House of Representatives considers draft laws submitted by no less than 150 thousand citizens of the Republic of Belarus, who are eligible to vote, to make amendments and alterations in the Constitution and give its interpretation The right of legislative initiative belongs to citizens who are eligible to vote, in a number of no less than 50,000. The issue of amending and supplementing the Constitution is considered by the chambers of the Parliament on the initiative of no fewer than 150,000 citizens of the Republic of Belarus who are eligible to vote.
Source: Art 72 73 et seq., 97, 99, 138 Constitution
Last updated: 2005-03-25 13:30:59 UTC

b. Signatories must be registered electors in a specific electoral district

Comments: National referenda is called on the initiative of no fewer than 450,000 citizens eligible to vote, including no fewer than 30,000 citizens from each of the regions (oblasts) and city of Minsk. Local referenda are called by the relevant local representative bodies on their initiative or on the recommendation of no less than ten percent of the citizens who are eligible to vote and resident in the area concerned. The recall of deputies shall be exercised to the order and instances as determined by the law. The voting for the recall of a deputy is exercised to the order determined for the election of the deputy, and on the initiative of no less than 20 percent of the citizens eligible to vote and resident in the corresponding area. The House of Representatives considers draft laws submitted by no less than 150 thousand citizens of the Republic of Belarus, who are eligible to vote, to make amendments and alterations in the Constitution and give its interpretation The right of legislative initiative belongs to citizens who are eligible to vote, in a number of no less than 50,000. The issue of amending and supplementing the Constitution is considered by the chambers of the Parliament on the initiative of no fewer than 150,000 citizens of the Republic of Belarus who are eligible to vote.
Source: Art 72 73 et seq., 97, 99, 138 Constitution
Last updated: 2005-03-25 13:31:41 UTC

a. Signatories must be registered

Comments: National referenda is called on the initiative of no fewer than 450,000 citizens eligible to vote, including no fewer than 30,000 citizens from each of the regions (oblasts) and city of Minsk. Local referenda are called by the relevant local representative bodies on their initiative or on the recommendation of no less than ten percent of the citizens who are eligible to vote and resident in the area concerned. The recall of deputies shall be exercised to the order and instances as determined by the law. The voting for the recall of a deputy is exercised to the order determined for the election of the deputy, and on the initiative of no less than 20 percent of the citizens eligible to vote and resident in the corresponding area. The House of Representatives considers draft laws submitted by no less than 150 thousand citizens of the Republic of Belarus, who are eligible to vote, to make amendments and alterations in the Constitution and give its interpretation The right of legislative initiative belongs to citizens who are eligible to vote, in a number of no less than 50,000. The issue of amending and supplementing the Constitution is considered by the chambers of the Parliament on the initiative of no fewer than 150,000 citizens of the Republic of Belarus who are eligible to vote.
Source: Art 72 73 et seq., 97, 99, 138 Constitution
Last updated: 2005-03-25 13:32:36 UTC

b. Proportion of the electorate 20 %

Comments: The recall of deputies shall be exercised to the order and instances as determined by the law. The voting for the recall of a deputy is exercised to the order determined for the election of the deputy, and on the initiative of no less than 20 percent of the citizens eligible to vote and resident in the corresponding area
Source: Art 72 73 et seq., 97, 99, 138 Constitution
Last updated: 2005-03-25 13:33:40 UTC

a. Fixed time period (specify)

Comments: 45 days
Source: Art 115, 135 Electoral Code
Last updated: 2005-03-25 13:34:13 UTC

a. Anywhere

Comments: This very peculiar question is not regulated by the law.
Source: Electoral Code
Last updated: 2005-03-25 13:35:52 UTC

a. Anywhere

Comments: : This very peculiar question is not regulated by the law
Source: Electoral Code
Last updated: 2005-03-25 13:36:18 UTC

a. Anywhere

Comments: This very peculiar question is not regulated by the law.
Source: Electoral Code
Last updated: 2005-03-25 13:36:52 UTC

a. Anywhere

Comments: This very peculiar question is not regulated by the law.
Source: Electoral Code
Last updated: 2005-03-25 13:37:20 UTC

a. Anywhere

Comments: This very peculiar question is not regulated by the law.
Source: Electoral Code
Last updated: 2005-03-25 13:37:49 UTC

a. Signatories must provide identity/voting card number

c. Other (specify)

Comments: The signature lists shall contain the wording of the registered question, offered for the referendum, and/or the summary of the proposed decision (draft law), the family name, the name and the patronymic name of the person collecting the signatures and shall specify the number of the registration certificate issued to the initiative group, and the authority which issued the registration certificate. The initiative group member collecting the signatures shall provide the complete text of the decision (draft law) offered for the referendum, at the request of any citizen for his familiarisation.
Source: Art 115, Electoral Code
Last updated: 2005-03-25 13:38:38 UTC

a. Signatories must provide identity/voting card number

c. Other (specify)

Comments: The signature lists shall contain the wording of the registered question, offered for the referendum, and/or the summary of the proposed decision (draft law), the family name, the name and the patronymic name of the person collecting the signatures and shall specify the number of the registration certificate issued to the initiative group, and the authority which issued the registration certificate. The initiative group member collecting the signatures shall provide the complete text of the decision (draft law) offered for the referendum, at the request of any citizen for his familiarisation.
Source: Art 115 Electoral Code
Last updated: 2005-03-25 13:39:13 UTC

a. Signatories must provide identity/voting card number

c. Other (specify)

Comments: The signature lists shall contain the wording of the registered question, offered for the referendum, and/or the summary of the proposed decision (draft law), the family name, the name and the patronymic name of the person collecting the signatures and shall specify the number of the registration certificate issued to the initiative group, and the authority which issued the registration certificate. The initiative group member collecting the signatures shall provide the complete text of the decision (draft law) offered for the referendum, at the request of any citizen for his familiarisation.
Source: Art 115 Electoral Code
Last updated: 2005-03-25 13:39:49 UTC

d. None

Comments: Not governed by law.
Last updated: 2005-03-25 13:41:52 UTC

a. Signatories must provide identity/voting card number

c. Other (specify)

Comments: The electors supporting the proposal to initiate the question of recalling a deputy shall indicate in the list of signatures his surname, name and patronymic name, the date of birth, the series and number of passport, or the requisites of the certificate of the person substituting it and the date of signing, and shall sign. Signatures shall be enumerated.
Source: Art 136 Electoral Code
Last updated: 2005-03-25 13:41:01 UTC

b. Ban on payment per signature

e. Other (specify)

Comments: It is forbidden to exert coercion toward the citizens of the Republic of Belarus with the purpose of obtaining their signatures for subscription sheets, and to use illegal practices for collecting signatures.
Source: Art 115 Electoral code
Last updated: 2005-03-25 13:44:50 UTC

b. Ban on payment per signature

e. Other (specify)

Comments: It is forbidden to exert coercion toward the citizens of the Republic of Belarus with the purpose of obtaining their signatures for subscription sheets, and to use illegal practices for collecting signatures
Source: Art 115 electoral Code
Last updated: 2005-03-29 11:32:04 UTC

b. Ban on payment per signature

e. Other (specify)

Comments: It is forbidden to exert coercion toward the citizens of the Republic of Belarus with the purpose of obtaining their signatures for subscription sheets, and to use illegal practices for collecting signatures.
Source: Art 115 Electoral Code
Last updated: 2005-03-29 11:34:58 UTC

a. Name of Institution CENTRAL COMMISSION OF THE REPUBLIC OF THE BELARUS ON ELECTIONS AND HOLDING OF REPUBLICAN REFERENDUMS
b. Full Address 11, SOVETSKAJA STR., 220010, BELARUS
c. Telephone +375-17-227-1903
d. Facsimile +375-17-227-1907
e. Email CENTRIZB(a)PMRB.GOV.BY
f. Website Address WWW.REC.GOV.BY
g. Name and Title of Chairperson/President LIDIA ERMOSHINA
h. Information Officer NIKOLAJ LOZOVIK
i. Official language of the electoral law governing national elections RUSSIAN/ BELORUSSIAN

Source: Ms. Lidia Ermoshina - Chairperson of the Central Commission of the Republic of the Belarus on Elections and Holding of Republican Referendums. centrizb@pmrb.gov.by
Last updated: Wed, 21 Aug 2002 19:20:29 GMT

a. National level

b. Regional level

c. Local level

Source: Law on Central Election Commission, article 1.
Last updated: 2008-01-21 12:57:21 UTC

c. The legislature

f. Other

Comments: c) Central Election Commission reports to the Parliament on expenditure costs from the state budget. f) Otherwise the Commission is a independent state organization that is accountable to citizens who are eligible to vote (has to inform them, etc.)
Source: Law on Central Election Commission, article 2.
Last updated: 2008-01-21 12:57:21 UTC

c. The legislature

Comments: There is separate state budgetary estimates.
Source: Code on Central Election Commission, article 8.
Last updated: Wed, 21 Aug 2002 19:22:04 GMT

c. The legislature

Comments: Central Election Commission has to perform report on expenditure cost alloted from the state budget for Palata Predstaviteley (Chamber 1).
Source: Code on Elections, article 48.
Last updated: Mon, 09 Sep 2002 12:00:08 GMT

b. For a term of _________ years

Comments: For a term of five years.
Source: Law on Central Election Commission, article 3.
Last updated: Wed, 17 Jul 2002 08:30:56 GMT

d. Presidential/ Prime Minister appointment

Comments: The chairman is appointed by the President but the council of the Republic must agree with this decision.
Source: Law on Central Election Commission, article 3.
Last updated: Wed, 17 Jul 2002 08:34:37 GMT

a. estimated total: 4500000
b. Exchange rate used 1 USD= 1450 RUB

Comments: 4 500 000 USD (1 USD = 1450 RUB)
Source: MS. LIDIA ERMOSHINA
Last updated: 2008-01-21 12:57:21 UTC

a. Total number: 7.300.000

Comments: Approximately 7 300 000.
Source: Ms. Lidia Ermoshina - Chairperson of the Central Commission of the Republic of the Belarus on Elections and Holding of Republican Referendums. centrizb@pmrb.gov.by
Last updated: 2008-01-21 12:57:21 UTC

a. USD/registered voter 0.61 = 885 RUB
b. Exchange rate used 1 USD= 1.450 RUB

Comments: 0.61USD
Source: Ms. Lidia Ermoshina - Chairperson of the Central Commission of the Republic of the Belarus on Elections and Holding of Republican Referendums. centrizb@pmrb.gov.by
Last updated: Mon, 09 Sep 2002 12:04:03 GMT

Last updated: 2008-01-21 12:57:21 UTC

c. Directly elected in general elections (absolute majority with 2nd round if necessary)

Comments: The first round is valid only in case more than 50% of registered voters participated in elections.
Source: Constitution, article 98.
Last updated: 2004-07-14 13:50:02 UTC

e. Appointed

Comments: The Prime minister shall be appointed by the President of the Republic of Belarus with the consent of the House of Representatives. The decision to this order shall be taken by the House of Representatives within two weeks since the nomination of the candidacy of the Prime minister. If the House of Representatives rejects the submitted nomination of the Prime minister twice, the President shall appoint the acting Prime minister on his own, and dissolve the House of Representatives and call new elections.
Source: Constitution, art. 106.
Last updated: Wed, 21 Aug 2002 18:58:19 GMT

a. Yes

Source: Constitution, article 79.
Last updated: Mon, 09 Sep 2002 11:36:40 GMT

b. Two chambers

Comments: The first chamber: Palata Predstaviteley. The second chamber: Soviet Respubliki.
Source: Constitution, article 90.
Last updated: Mon, 09 Sep 2002 11:41:59 GMT

d. Two-Round System

Comments: Members to the House of the Representatives are elected in single-mandate constituencies. If none of the candidates gains more than half of the votes, a second round is held.
Source: Constitution, article 67.
Last updated: Mon, 09 Sep 2002 11:42:41 GMT

l. Other

Comments: 56 members are elected indirectly (regional councils and council of Minsk). 8 are appointed by the Head of State.
Source: Constitution, article 91.
Last updated: Mon, 09 Sep 2002 11:44:27 GMT

h. Not applicable

Comments: List PR is not used.
Last updated: Mon, 15 Jul 2002 09:39:52 GMT

b. Specially delimited constituencies

Comments: There are 110 constituencies.
Source: Code on Elections, article 15.
Last updated: Mon, 09 Sep 2002 11:45:33 GMT

e. Other

Comments: 56 members are elected indirectly in the regional councils and council of Minsk. 8 members are appointed by the President.
Source: Constitution, article 91.
Last updated: Mon, 09 Sep 2002 11:46:24 GMT

b. No

Source: Code on Elections
Last updated: Mon, 15 Jul 2002 09:44:27 GMT

e. Not applicable X

Comments: Special constituencies or seats are not reserved.
Source: Code on Elections
Last updated: Wed, 21 Aug 2002 19:03:05 GMT

b. No

Source: Code on Elections
Last updated: Mon, 15 Jul 2002 09:46:57 GMT

e. Not applicable X

Comments: Special constituencies or seats are not reserved.
Source: Code of Elections
Last updated: Wed, 21 Aug 2002 19:03:47 GMT

c. Not applicable

Comments: Only candidates compete in elections not parties.
Source: Code on Elections, articles 62, 63 and 65.
Last updated: Mon, 24 Mar 2003 16:04:39 GMT

c. Not applicable

Comments: Parties are not competing in elections, but the candidates can be members of the parties. The membership is not a disqualifying reason.
Source: Code on Elections, article 98.
Last updated: Mon, 09 Sep 2002 11:49:04 GMT

a. No minimum

Comments:
Source: Code on Elections, article 82.
Last updated: Wed, 28 Aug 2002 09:02:55 GMT

c. Not applicable

Comments: 56 members are elected indirectly (regional councils and council of Minsk), the rules of it differs. 8 are appointed by the Head of State.
Source: Code on Elections Chapter IV. Art. 106.
Last updated: Mon, 09 Sep 2002 11:49:43 GMT

a. At fixed intervals (specify length)

Comments: Every four years.
Source: Constitution, article 93.
Last updated: Mon, 09 Sep 2002 11:50:13 GMT

a. At fixed intervals (specify length)

Comments: Every four years.
Source: Constitution, article 93.
Last updated: Mon, 09 Sep 2002 11:50:51 GMT

a. Voting takes place on one day

Source: Code on Elections, article 56.
Last updated: Mon, 09 Sep 2002 11:51:23 GMT

b. Voting takes place over a period of 2 or more days

Source: Code on Elections, article 102.
Last updated: Mon, 09 Sep 2002 11:52:22 GMT

a. Part of Constitution

b. Separate legislation

Comments: b) Separate legislation Act - Code on Elections.
Source: Constitution; Code on Elections
Last updated: 2006-11-20 13:48:07 UTC

a. January 2000 or later

Comments: Last amendment of Code of Elections - 4 July 2000.
Source: Ms. Lidia Ermoshina - Chairperson of the Central Commission of the Republic of the Belarus on Elections and Holding of Republican Referendums. centrizb(a)pmrb.gov.by
Last updated: 2006-11-20 13:48:07 UTC

a. National elections

b. Regional elections

c. Local elections

d. Referendums

Source: Code on Elections, article 1.
Last updated: Mon, 15 Jul 2002 10:04:00 GMT

a. Voting is voluntary

Source: Code on Elections, article 5; International IDEA Voter Turnout Website (http://www.idea.int/vt/)
Last updated: 2006-11-17 14:58:30 UTC

a. National elections are not held on the same day as regional or local elections

Comments: It is neither forbidden nor necessary to hold national, local and regional elections on the same day.
Source: Ms. Lidia Ermoshina - Chairperson of the Central Commission of the Republic of the Belarus on Elections and Holding of Republican Referendums. centrizb(a)pmrb.gov.by
Last updated: 2006-11-20 13:48:07 UTC

a. Presidential elections are not held on the same day as national legislative elections

Comments: There are no such provisions in the law. However, on the basis of last elections, the dates do not concide: elections for Chamber 1 were held on 15 October 2000, for Chamber 2 were held on 19 December 2000, and Presidential elections were held on September 2001.
Source: Ms. Lidia Ermoshina - Chairperson of the Central Commission of the Republic of the Belarus on Elections and Holding of Republican Referendums. centrizb@pmrb.gov.by
Last updated: 2006-11-20 13:48:07 UTC

a. Judiciary

b. EMB

Comments: The main rule is that the disputes are settled by the Electoral Commission at different levels, but there are special questions that have to be taken to court.
Source: Ms. Lidia Ermoshina - Chairperson of the Central Commission of the Republic of the Belarus on Elections and Holding of Republican Referendums. centrizb@pmrb.gov.by
Last updated: 2006-11-20 13:48:07 UTC

h. Not applicable

Comments: The agency which settles formal disputes is not specially elected.
Source: Ms. Lidia Ermoshina - Chairperson of the Central Commission of the Republic of the Belarus on Elections and Holding of Republican Referendums. centrizb@pmrb.gov.by
Last updated: Wed, 28 Aug 2002 09:05:57 GMT

a. Candidates

c. Voters

d. Foreign/International Observers

Source: Ms. Lidia Ermoshina - Chairperson of the Central Commission of the Republic of the Belarus on Elections and Holding of Republican Referendums. centrizb@pmrb.gov.by
Last updated: Wed, 21 Aug 2002 19:17:18 GMT

a. Electoral Management Body

c. Superior Court

Comments: There are a few questions in which local court is the first level authority and the appellate authority is court of higher instance In questions concerning annulation of the results the Central Election Commission is responsible.
Source: Ms. Lidia Ermoshina - Chairperson of the Central Commission of the Republic of the Belarus on Elections and Holding of Republican Referendums. centrizb@pmrb.gov.by
Last updated: 2006-11-20 13:48:07 UTC

c. Government

f. Other

Comments: Any of the representatives in Chamber 1 and Chamber 2 or 50.000 citizens.
Source: Constitution, article 99.
Last updated: 2006-11-20 13:48:07 UTC

a. Name and Title: Attila Vincze
b. Job Title: Researcher
c. Organisation: ACEEEO
d. Contact Address: Budapest, V. Alkotmány street 25. Hungary Postal Address: Budapest, P.O. BOX: 81. 1450 Hungary
e. Telephone: + 36 1 354 02 65
f. Facsimile: + 36 1 354 02 64
g. Email: Attila.Vincze@gmx.net

Last updated: 2006-04-06 16:49:35 UTC

a. Publicly owned

b. Government owned

c. Privately owned

Comments: It is very difficult to make a difference between state owned government owned radios. Private radios broadcast mainly from abroad, Ministry of Information tries to controll FM broadcaster even intensively.
Source: Freedom House, von Steinsdorff, Das politische System Weißrußlands In: Ismayr: Die politischen Systeme Osteuropas, 2.ed, 2004, pp. 457 et seq.
Last updated: 2006-04-06 16:49:35 UTC

a. Publicly owned

Source: Freedom House, von Steinsdorff, Das politische System Weißrußlands In: Ismayr: Die politischen Systeme Osteuropas, 2.ed, 2004, pp. 457 et seq.
Last updated: 2006-04-03 17:19:50 UTC

a. Publicly owned

b. Government owned

c. Privately owned

Source: Freedom House, von Steinsdorff, Das politische System Weißrußlands In: Ismayr: Die politischen Systeme Osteuropas, 2.ed, 2004, pp. 457 et seq.
Last updated: 2006-04-03 17:19:50 UTC

a. Government newspaper holds a monopoly

Comments: There exist private media, however it is mainly oppressed by the Government. State-owned media are extensively subsidized, whereas independent media are forced to shoulder high taxes and fees on printing and distribution. The independent press depends heavily on foreign assistance because of discriminatory pricing at state printing houses and difficulties in attracting advertisements from state-owned companies.
Source: Freedom House, von Steinsdorff, Das politische System Weißrußlands In: Ismayr: Die politischen Systeme Osteuropas, 2.ed, 2004, pp. 457 et seq.
Last updated: 2006-04-06 16:49:35 UTC

b. 30% to 60%

Comments: The independent private radio stations of Belarusian origin have changed their place of business to Poland or Lithuania, some broadcast from Russia. These station are heavily controlled by the State, however it is possible to receive their program.
Source: Freedom House, von Steinsdorff, Das politische System Weißrußlands In: Ismayr: Die politischen Systeme Osteuropas, 2.ed, 2004, pp. 457 et seq.
Last updated: 2006-04-03 17:19:50 UTC

d. Not applicable: no private television stations exist

Source: Freedom House, von Steinsdorff, Das politische System Weißrußlands In: Ismayr: Die politischen Systeme Osteuropas, 2.ed, 2004, pp. 457 et seq.
Last updated: 2006-04-03 17:19:50 UTC

b. Private radio

e. Print media

Comments: Print media: only private media radio: Belarusian radio stations broadcasting from abroad
Source: Freedom House, von Steinsdorff, op. cit
Last updated: 2005-03-29 14:43:53 UTC

a. a

Comments: Law On Press and other Mass Media The access to information for non-state run media is informally denied, giving information towards these media is for ministries banned by the Government.
Source: ACEEEO questionnaire Media and Elections, Belarus Freedom House, von Steinsdorff, Das politische System Weißrußlands In: Ismayr: Die politischen Systeme Osteuropas, 2.ed, 2004, pp. 457 et seq.
Last updated: 2006-04-06 16:49:35 UTC

a. L

Source: Law On Press and other Mass Media
Last updated: 2006-04-03 17:19:50 UTC

a. Over 60%

Source: Freedom House, von Steinsdorff, Das politische System Weißrußlands In: Ismayr: Die politischen Systeme Osteuropas, 2.ed, 2004, pp. 457 et seq.
Last updated: 2006-04-03 17:19:50 UTC

a. Over 60 %

Source: Freedom House, von Steinsdorff, Das politische System Weißrußlands In: Ismayr: Die politischen Systeme Osteuropas, 2.ed, 2004, pp. 457 et seq.
Last updated: 2006-04-03 17:19:50 UTC

d. Public television

h. Other (specify)

Comments: The State run electronic media enjoys the state-monopoly of the sources of information, and as such has the biggest potency to influence the people. More critical voices against the ruling Belarusian Government can be heard only from abroad, Russian sources are available, however they are facing even more oppression.
Source: Freedom House, von Steinsdorff, Das politische System Weißrußlands In: Ismayr: Die politischen Systeme Osteuropas, 2.ed, 2004, pp. 457 et seq.
Last updated: 2006-04-06 16:49:35 UTC

b. Private radio

e. Print media

Comments: Print media: only private ones radio: Belarusian radio stations broadcasting from abroad
Source: Freedom House, von Steinsdorff, Das politische System Weißrußlands In: Ismayr: Die politischen Systeme Osteuropas, 2.ed, 2004, pp. 457 et seq.
Last updated: 2006-04-06 16:49:35 UTC

a. a

Comments: Law On Press and other Mass Media
Last updated: 2005-03-29 14:51:57 UTC

a. a

Source: Law On Press and other Mass Media
Last updated: 2006-04-03 17:19:50 UTC

a. Government

Comments: Broadcast licenses are given on competitive grounds by a state body selected by the Council of Ministers of the Republic of Belarus.
Source: Law On Press and Mass Media
Last updated: 2006-04-03 17:19:50 UTC

a. Political parties

b. Private companies

c. Non governmental organisations

f. State owned companies

g. Other

Comments: Citizens of the Republic of Belarus, foreign and stateless citizens, state bodies, political parties, other non-governmental organisations, other legal entities (including foreign legal entities) and also state bodies can found mass media.
Source: Law on Press and Mass Media, art 10
Last updated: 2006-04-03 17:19:50 UTC

a. a

Comments: The state governing body in the sphere of mass media can revoke a registration certificate of a mass medium if: 3.1. the mass medium was not reregistered after entry into force of the new law 3.2. the founder of the mass medium has missed the following deadline: the founder has the right to initiate publication of the mass medium within a year from the day the registration certificate is issued. In case of failure to start the activity within this period, the mass medium's registration certificate is considered invalid. 3.3. the activities of the mass medium have been suspended by a court:The activity of a mass medium can be suspended by decision of court on request of the state governing body in the sphere of mass media or a local prosecutor. The state governing body in the sphere of mass media may initiate a law suit to suspend the activity of a mass medium if the mass medium has been issued more than two written warnings in the space of one year. 3.4. the edition of the mass medium or a legal entity, of which the edition is a structural unit has stopped its operation 3.5. the legal entity/editorial office of the mass medium, or legal entity, a structural division of which is an editorial office of a mass medium, has been liquidated.
Source: Law on Press and Mass Media
Last updated: 2006-04-06 16:49:35 UTC

a. Yes

Comments: Libel suits were used in 2003 as a tool of repression and to settle personal scores. BDG journalist Iryna Makavetskaya was fined on October 1 in a criminal libel suit against her coverage of the investigation into the case of Jury Bandazheuski, a Homel University professor and Chernobyl activist sentenced to eight years in jail in 2001. Another libel suit was awarded on September 26, 2003, to the National State TV and Radio Company (NDTRK) against Maryna Koktysh, a journalist of Narodnaja Volia, and Eleanora Jazerskaja, a former employee of the First National Channel (BT-1), for accusing NDTRK head Jahor Rybakou of taking Jazerskaja’s show off the air and facilitating the overall decay of BT-1. Narodnaja Volia was hit with a fine of 50 million Belarusian rubles (US$24,000), and Jazerskaja and Koktysh were fined 3 million rubles (US$1,400) each. NDTRK appealed the sentence, and the appeal court increased the fines by five times for Narodnaja Volia and three times for Jazerskaja.
Source: Freedom House, von Steinsdorff, Das politische System Weißrußlands In: Ismayr: Die politischen Systeme Osteuropas, 2.ed, 2004, pp. 457 et seq.
Last updated: 2006-04-03 17:19:50 UTC

a. Law

b. Secondary legislation (e.g. regulations)

Comments: Electoral Code Resolutions of the Central Commission of the Republic of Belarus for Elections and Nationwide Referenda
Source: Electoral Code Resolutions of the Central Commission of the Republic of Belarus for Elections and Nationwide Referenda
Last updated: 2006-04-06 16:49:35 UTC

c. Government

g. EMB by law or regulations

Source: Art 4 Law on CCE, Law on press and mass media, ACEEEO questionnaire on Media and elections
Last updated: 2005-03-29 15:01:05 UTC

b. Requiring balance in media news coverage of an election

c. Placing limits on when the media may report about an election

Source: Art 45 Electoral Code, resolutions of cce on use of mass media
Last updated: 2005-03-29 15:01:49 UTC

a. Yes

Source: Resolutions of cce on use of mass media
Last updated: 2006-04-03 17:19:50 UTC

d. Not applicable

Comments: Ministry of Information is entitled to enforce media regulation
Source: ACEEEO questionnaire on Media and Elections
Last updated: 2005-03-29 15:04:57 UTC

a. Yes

Comments: Theoretcally there is a possibility, practically it does not function.
Source: ACEEEO questionnaire on Media and elections, Belarus REPUBLIC OF BELARUS PARLIAMENTARY ELECTIONS 17 October 2004 OSCE/ODIHR Election Observation Mission Final Report
Last updated: 2006-04-06 16:49:35 UTC

a. Criminal prosecution

b. Administrative sanction

c. Other (specify)

Comments: To repress the opposition the Governmnet use non legal instruments, as well.
Source: OSCE report on parliamentary election 2004 Freedom House, von Steinsdorff, Das politische System Weißrußlands In: Ismayr: Die politischen Systeme Osteuropas, 2.ed, 2004, pp. 457 et seq.
Last updated: 2006-04-06 16:49:35 UTC

a. Yes

Comments: There exist a code of ethics this is during the elections to apply
Source: ACEEEO questionnaire on Media and Elections, Belarus
Last updated: 2006-04-03 17:19:50 UTC

c. Seldom respected

Source: Freedom House, von Steinsdorff, Das politische System Weißrußlands In: Ismayr: Die politischen Systeme Osteuropas, 2.ed, 2004, pp. 457 et seq.
Last updated: 2006-04-03 17:19:50 UTC

a. EMB

Source: Art 4 Law on Central Commission of Elections
Last updated: 2005-03-29 15:26:25 UTC

a. Publicly owned

Source: Art 45 et seq. electoral code ACEEEO questionnaire on Media and Elections, Belarus
Last updated: 2006-04-06 16:49:35 UTC

a. Publicly owned

Source: Art 45 et seq. electoral code ACEEEO questionnaire on Media and Elections, Belarus
Last updated: 2006-04-06 16:49:35 UTC

a. Publicly owned

Source: Art 45 et seq. electoral code law on press and mass media ACEEEO questionnaire on Media and Elections, Belarus
Last updated: 2006-04-06 16:49:35 UTC

a. Equal regardless of size of party and previous performance

Source: Art 45 et seq electoral code ACEEEO questionnaire on Media and Elctions, Belarus
Last updated: 2006-04-06 16:49:35 UTC

b. The law does not specify any limits on paid advertising X

Comments: No paid electoral campaign is allowed
Source: OSCE report on parliamentary elections in Belarus, 2004
Last updated: 2005-03-29 15:35:19 UTC

a. Publicly owned

Source: Art 45 et seq electoral code
Last updated: 2005-03-29 15:35:52 UTC

a. Publicly owned

Source: Art 45 et seq. electoral code
Last updated: 2005-03-29 15:36:13 UTC

a. Publicly owned

Source: Art 45 et seq. electoral code
Last updated: 2006-04-06 16:49:35 UTC

a. Equal regardless of size and previous performance

Source: Art 45 et seq. electoral code
Last updated: 2005-03-29 15:37:25 UTC

e. None

Source: OSCE report on parliamentary elections in Belarus, 2004 ACEEEO questionnaire on Media and elections, Belarus
Last updated: 2006-04-06 16:49:35 UTC

e. None

Source: OSCE report on parliamentary elections in Belarus, 2004 ACEEEO questionnaire on Media and elections, Belarus
Last updated: 2006-04-06 16:49:35 UTC

e. None

Source: OSCE report on parliamentary elections in Belarus, 2004 ACEEEO questionnaire on Media and elections, Belarus
Last updated: 2006-04-06 16:49:35 UTC

i. Not applicable

Source: OSCE report on parliamentary elections in Belarus, 2004 ACEEEO questionnaire on Media and elections, Belarus
Last updated: 2006-04-06 16:49:35 UTC

a. Publicly owned

Source: Art 45 et seq., 74 electoral code
Last updated: 2005-03-29 15:41:58 UTC

a. Publicly owned

Source: Art 45 et seq., 74 electoral code
Last updated: 2005-03-29 15:42:24 UTC

a. Publicly owned

Source: Art 45 et seq., 74 Electoral code
Last updated: 2005-03-29 15:43:14 UTC

a. Equal regardless of size and previous performance of candidate’s party

Comments: There are heavy bias in the practice in favour of ruling president
Source: Art 45 et seq., 74 electoral code
Last updated: 2006-04-03 17:19:50 UTC

e. None

Source: ACEEEO questionnaire on Media and elections, Belarus
Last updated: 2005-03-29 15:50:13 UTC

e. None

Source: ACEEEO questionnaire on Media and elections, Belarus
Last updated: 2005-03-29 15:49:55 UTC

e. None

Source: ACEEEO questionnaire on Media and elections, Belarus
Last updated: 2005-03-29 15:49:37 UTC

i. Not applicable

Source: ACEEEO questionnaire on Media and elections, Belarus art 45 et seq., 74 electoral code
Last updated: 2006-04-06 16:49:35 UTC

b. The law does not specify any limits on paid advertising X

Source: Art 45 et seq., 74 electoral code ACEEEO questionnaire on Media and elections, Belarus
Last updated: 2006-04-06 16:49:35 UTC

a. ....... electoral code, law on CCE

Comments: For the financing of electoral campaign are financed only through public source
Source: ACEEEO questionnaire on Media and elections, Belarus Art 45 et seq. electoral code art 4 Law on CCE
Last updated: 2006-04-06 16:49:35 UTC

b. The law does not specify any limits X

Comments: no paid advertising is permitted
Source: OSCE report on parliamentary elections in Belarus, 2004 ACEEEO questionnaire on Media and elections, Belarus
Last updated: 2006-04-06 16:49:35 UTC

b. None X

Comments: no paid advertisment is allowed
Source: OSCE report on parliamentary elections in Belarus, 2004 ACEEEO questionnaire on Media and elections, Belarus
Last updated: 2006-04-06 16:49:35 UTC

c. No

Source: OSCE/ODIHR Limited Election Observation Mission, Final Reporton REPUBLIC OF BELARUS, PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION, 9 September 2001 OSCE report on parliamentary elections in Belarus, 2004
Last updated: 2006-04-06 16:49:35 UTC

a. ......... n

Comments: See D.1.1
Last updated: 2006-04-03 17:19:50 UTC

a. Person or agency that commissioned the opinion poll

b. Geographical coverage

c. Characteristics of the sample

d. Size of the sample

e. Margin of error

f. Other

Comments: Polling subject, methods of information gathering, criteria of respondents selection, full list of the posed questions with the number of the respondents on each not answered question, copies of the information quality assurance protocols if quality assurance was carried and also published poll based material.
Source: Regulation of the Council of Ministers on the Opinion Poll Commission at the National Academy of Sciences
Last updated: 2006-04-06 16:49:35 UTC

f. 10 or more days

Comments: 10 days
Source: Art 46 electoral code
Last updated: 2005-03-29 17:29:39 UTC

f. Not applicable

Comments: Not governed by law
Source: ACEEEO questionnaire on Media and Elections, Belarus
Last updated: 2006-04-03 17:19:50 UTC

e. Not applicable

Comments: Not governed by law
Source: ACEEEO questionnaire on Media and Elections
Last updated: 2006-04-03 17:19:50 UTC

b. After all polls close, before official results are available

Source: Electoral code CCE resolution on use of mass media
Last updated: 2006-04-06 16:49:35 UTC

a. Yes

Source: OSCE reports on elections, 2001, 2004
Last updated: 2005-03-29 17:40:27 UTC

e. Other (specify)

Comments: N.A.
Last updated: 2005-03-29 17:44:45 UTC

b. No

Comments: N.A.
Last updated: 2005-03-29 17:45:15 UTC

b. Press releases

d. Pre-recorded radio or TV slots

e. Web site

Source: http://www.rec.gov.by/
Last updated: 2006-04-06 16:49:35 UTC

b. No

Source: OSCE reports on Belarusian elections 2001, 2004
Last updated: 2005-03-29 18:00:25 UTC

a. Publicly owned

Source: Art 13 electoral code
Last updated: 2006-04-03 17:19:50 UTC

a. Publicly owned

Source: Art 13 electoral code
Last updated: 2006-04-03 17:19:50 UTC

a. Publicly owned

Source: Art 13 electoral code
Last updated: 2006-04-03 17:19:50 UTC

e. None

Comments: Not governed by law
Source: Electoral code
Last updated: 2006-04-03 17:19:50 UTC

e. None

Comments: Not governed by law
Source: Electoral code
Last updated: 2006-04-03 17:19:50 UTC

e. None

Comments: Not governed by law
Source: Electoral code
Last updated: 2006-04-03 17:19:50 UTC

e. None of the above

Source: OSCE reports on elections in Belarus, 2001, 2004
Last updated: 2005-03-29 17:53:01 UTC

a. Insufficient staff with responsibility for media relations

d. Other

Comments: Lack of motivation
Source: OSCE reports on Belarusian elections
Last updated: 2006-04-03 17:19:50 UTC

c. Not very effective

Source: OSCE report on Belarusian elections Freedom House
Last updated: 2006-04-06 16:49:35 UTC

g. Not applicable

Comments: Parties do not compete in elections they can only propose candidates and the candidates can be members of the parties.
Source: Code on Elections, articles 60, 62 and 65.
Last updated: Mon, 09 Sep 2002 12:26:06 GMT

g. Not applicable

Comments: because the members are elected indirectly or are appointed by the Head of the State
Source: Constitution, article 91.
Last updated: Mon, 09 Sep 2002 12:26:51 GMT

a. Age

b. Citizenship

d. Residence

Comments: a) 21 years old. d) Permanent residence.
Source: Code on Elections, article 57.
Last updated: Wed, 21 Aug 2002 19:42:05 GMT

a. Age

b. Citizenship

d. Residence

Comments: a) 18 years old.
Source: Constitution, articles 97 and 98.
Last updated: Mon, 09 Sep 2002 12:28:03 GMT

a. Age

b. Citizenship

c. Country of birth

d. Residence

Comments: a) 35 years old. d) Permanent residence in Belarus for at least the last ten years prior to the election of the President.
Source: Constitution, article 80.
Last updated: Mon, 09 Sep 2002 12:28:39 GMT

a. Current criminal incarceration

b. Detention

e. Offences against electoral law

g. Holding of government office

k. Mental health problems

l. Multiple Citizenship

n. Holding of other public offices (police etc.)

Comments: g) A candidate cannot be a member of the municipality council, president of the Republic or a member of the Council of the Republic. n) Judge.
Source: Code on Elections, article 59.
Last updated: Mon, 09 Sep 2002 12:30:15 GMT

a. Current criminal incarceration

b. Detention

e. Offences against electoral law

k. Mental health problems

l. Multiple Citizenship

Comments: e) For example, Code on Elections article 75 (if the programme of the candidate contains incise for war). l) It is not possible to have multiple citizenship according to the Belarusian Law.
Source: Code on Elections, chapter 5.
Last updated: Wed, 28 Aug 2002 09:13:10 GMT

e. In both presidential and legislative elections

Comments: A candidate for President can only be nominated by the citizens. A candidate for deputy must be nominated either by registered political parties, labour team or citizens via collecting signatures.
Source: Code on Elections, article 60.
Last updated: Wed, 21 Aug 2002 19:47:52 GMT

a. Signature requirement (specify)

Comments: Candidates for the House of Representatives can be proposed either by the -registered political party -labour group - at least 10 voters - only in that case signatures have to be collected (1.000 signatures)
Source: Code on Elections, articles 65.
Last updated: Mon, 09 Sep 2002 12:38:10 GMT

d. Other

Comments: 56 (indirectly elected) of the 61 members of the Council of the Republic must be proposed by the regional legislature. The other 8 members are appointed by the head of State.
Source: Constitution, article 91.
Last updated: Mon, 09 Sep 2002 12:39:14 GMT

a. Signature requirement (specify)

Comments: Candidates for the Presidency have to be proposed either by the registered political parties or by the citizens via collecting signatures (100.000)
Source: Code on Elections, article 60.
Last updated: Wed, 21 Aug 2002 19:50:35 GMT

a. No

Comments: Parties do not compete in elections. They can only nominate candidates for the deputies. Those candidates nominated by the parties have media access.
Source: Code on Elections, article 46 and 48.
Last updated: Mon, 09 Sep 2002 12:40:24 GMT

d. Not Applicable

Comments: Political parties do not receive direct or indirect public funding. Only candidates nominated by parties are entitled to funding.
Source: Code on Elections, article 45.
Last updated: Mon, 09 Sep 2002 12:41:24 GMT

e. Not Applicable

Comments: Only candidates nominated by parties are entitled to funding.
Source: Kisiljova Nadezda Nikolajevna- Lawyer of the Central Election Commission Tel.: +375-17-227-19-15
Last updated: Wed, 21 Aug 2002 19:56:41 GMT

a. Equal funding, regardless of size and previous performance

Comments: All candidates, nominated by political parties, receive equal funds.
Source: Code on Elections, article 45.
Last updated: Mon, 09 Sep 2002 12:42:30 GMT

e. Not Applicable

Comments: Only candidates nominated by political parties receive funding.
Source: Code on Elections, article 45.
Last updated: Mon, 09 Sep 2002 12:42:58 GMT

b. No

Comments: Contributions to political parties can come from the common fund established by the "CEC", private persons, social institutions and political parties. Foreign states, organizations and common organizations are not allowed to finance the elections of Belarus. This funds can only be used for preparation and implementation of elections.
Source: Code on Elections, article 48.
Last updated: Wed, 21 Aug 2002 20:02:53 GMT

d. Not Applicable

Comments: Contributions are given to the common fund (the private fundings can not be given to the separate candidates only to the common fund the trustee of which is the Central Election Commission)and can be spent only for the organizing and conducting of the elections. The funds are distributed among the candidates and not the parties.
Source: Code on Elections, article 48.
Last updated: Mon, 09 Sep 2002 12:44:48 GMT

j. Not applicable

Comments: Only candidates nominated by political parties can receive funding.
Last updated: Wed, 21 Aug 2002 20:04:37 GMT

c. Prohibition on candidate funding from foreign sources

Source: Code on Elections, article 48 and 49.
Last updated: Mon, 09 Sep 2002 12:45:36 GMT

e. Not applicable

Comments: Parties are not entitled to neither direct nor indirect funding- only the candidates
Source: Kisiljova Nadezda Nikolajevna- Lawyer of the Central Election Commission Tel.: +375-17-227-19-15
Last updated: Tue, 16 Jul 2002 13:48:02 GMT

a. Single ballot (all registered parties listed)

d. Categorical (only one mark allowed)

l. No photos or logos, only party and/or candidate names

m. Organized alphabetically

r. Other

Comments: r) Ballots have to be signed by at least two members of the Electoral Commission and confirmed by the regional electoral commission. The ballot is printed in either Russian or in Belarussian. p>
Source: Code on Elections, article 72.
Last updated: Mon, 09 Sep 2002 12:48:23 GMT

a. Single ballot (all registered parties listed)

l. No photos or logos, only party and/or candidate names

m. Organized alphabetically

r. Other

Comments: r. The ballot is printed in either Russian or Belarussian.
Source: Code on Elections, article 104.
Last updated: Mon, 09 Sep 2002 12:49:53 GMT

a. Single ballot (all registered parties/candidates listed)

d. Categorical (only possible to make one mark)

l. No photos or logos, only party and/or candidate names

m. Organized alphabetically

r. Other

Comments: r) Ballots have to be confirmed by the regional electoral commission. Ballots are printed either in Russian or in Belarussian.
Source: Code on Elections, article 72.
Last updated: Mon, 09 Sep 2002 12:55:39 GMT

a. At the polling stations

Source: Code on Elections, article 55.
Last updated: Mon, 09 Sep 2002 12:56:14 GMT

b. Sub-district level

Source: Code on Elections, article 55.
Last updated: Mon, 09 Sep 2002 12:57:34 GMT

b. District level

c. Regional level (specify whether it is constituency/ province/ state/ department/other)

d. National level

Comments: b) Candidates to the House of Representatives are elected in the special constituencies: there are 110 districts. c) Election of members to the Council of the Republic: they represent the region or the capital city - 56 of them are elected. d) Presidential elections: the whole country is one constituency
Source: Code on Elections, articles 14 and 15.
Last updated: Wed, 21 Aug 2002 20:11:44 GMT

a. Physically transported

Comments: Minutes performed by the election commissions of different levels are transported physically accompanied by the chairman of the commission and some other members.
Source: Code on Elections, article 55.
Last updated: Mon, 09 Sep 2002 12:58:28 GMT

f. Certificate of result

Comments: Minutes of the voting results are transported.
Source: Code on Elections, article 55.
Last updated: Mon, 09 Sep 2002 12:59:05 GMT

c. Signatures on sealed envelopes

e. Accompanied by election officials

Comments: Chairman of the election commission in any case has to accompany the transported minutes.
Source: Kisiljova Nadezda Nikolajevna - Lawyer of the Central Election Commission. Tel. +375-17-227-19-15
Last updated: Mon, 22 Jul 2002 09:26:28 GMT

f. Other

Comments: Based on an order from the upper electoral commission, in case there are mistakes in the counting or other violations to the electoral law.
Source: Code on Election, article 82.
Last updated: Wed, 21 Aug 2002 20:15:06 GMT

e. Not applicable

Comments: Results are not automatically recounted.
Source: Code on Election, article 82.
Last updated: Wed, 21 Aug 2002 20:16:11 GMT

c. Election officials

Comments: In case that the minutes of the precinct and those of the district election commission do not concide, or that other violations to the regulations of the Code of Elections occur, the upper election commission orders a recount of the results on the basis of the election officials request.
Source: Code on Elections, article 82.
Last updated: Wed, 21 Aug 2002 20:18:40 GMT

b. Regional Election Management body

Comments: The recount of the votes is conducted by the district election commission (there are 110 districts) in the presence of at least one member of the Central Election Commission. If it is necessary, a member of the precinct election commission can also be present.
Source: Code on Elections, article 82.
Last updated: Wed, 21 Aug 2002 20:20:37 GMT

a. Yes

Comments: Not later than 5 days after the first round of Presidential or Parliamentarian Elections.
Source: Ms Lidia Ermoshina - Chairperson of the Central Commission of the Republic of the Belarus on Elections and Holding of Republican Referendums. centrizb(a)pmrb.gov.by
Last updated: Mon, 09 Sep 2002 13:00:57 GMT

a. hours: 4 to 8

Source: Ms. Lidia Ermoshina - Chairperson of the Central Commission of the Republic of the Belarus on Elections and Holding of Republican Referendums. centrizb@pmrb.gov.by
Last updated: Wed, 21 Aug 2002 20:25:04 GMT

a. Yes

Comments:
Source: Code on Elections, article 84.
Last updated: Wed, 28 Aug 2002 09:17:52 GMT

b. days:

Comments: The results must be published: -within 10 days on Presidential elections -within 5 days on Parliamentarian elections after the first round -within 3 days after the Central Election Commission signed the minutes on the election results.
Source: Code on Elections, articles 79, 82, and 85.
Last updated: Mon, 09 Sep 2002 13:01:40 GMT

a. National Electoral Management Body

d. National Government

i. Media

Source: Ms. Lidia Ermoshina - Chairperson of the Central Commission of the Republic of the Belarus on Elections and Holding of Republican Referendums. centrizb@pmrb.gov.by
Last updated: Wed, 21 Aug 2002 19:28:31 GMT

b. Election time only

Source: Ms. Lidia Ermoshina - Chairperson of the Central Commission of the Republic of the Belarus on Elections and Holding of Republican Referendums. centrizb@pmrb.gov.by
Last updated: Wed, 21 Aug 2002 19:29:00 GMT

a. No

Source: Ms. Lidia Ermoshina - Chairperson of the Central Commission of the Republic of the Belarus on Elections and Holding of Republican Referendums. centrizb@pmrb.gov.by
Last updated: Wed, 21 Aug 2002 19:29:30 GMT

a. Poster/ Billboard campaigns

b. Media advertisement

e. Public meetings

g. Internet

Source: Ms. Lidia Ermoshina - Chairperson of the Central Commission of the Republic of the Belarus on Elections and Holding of Republican Referendums. centrizb@pmrb.gov.by
Last updated: Wed, 21 Aug 2002 19:29:51 GMT

i. Not applicable

Comments: No civic education activities were carried out.
Source: Ms. Lidia Ermoshina - Chairperson of the Central Commission of the Republic of the Belarus on Elections and Holding of Republican Referendums. centrizb@pmrb.gov.by
Last updated: Wed, 21 Aug 2002 19:30:13 GMT

h. Not applicable

Comments: No special voter education programs were developed.
Source: Ms. Lidia Ermoshina - Chairperson of the Central Commission of the Republic of the Belarus on Elections and Holding of Republican Referendums. centrizb@pmrb.gov.by
Last updated: Mon, 09 Sep 2002 12:14:59 GMT

b. No

Comments: There is no separate code, but the main regulations are incorporated in the Code on Elections.
Source: Ms. Lidia Ermoshina - Chairperson of the Central Commission of the Republic of the Belarus on Elections and Holding of Republican Referendums. centrizb@pmrb.gov.by
Last updated: Wed, 21 Aug 2002 19:34:17 GMT

a. At a specified polling station in the locality where they are registered at national elections

e. At mobile polling stations

Comments: e) Persons who are not able to come to the polling stations on their own, can vote via mobile voting stations.
Source: Code on Elections, articles 51 and 54.
Last updated: Mon, 09 Sep 2002 12:17:19 GMT

b. Citizens residing outside the country

c. Citizens outside the country (including those on vacation)

f. Diplomatic staff

Source: Code on Elections, article 20.
Last updated: Mon, 09 Sep 2002 12:23:15 GMT

a. Embassies

b. Consulates

Source: Code on Elections, article 18.
Last updated: Mon, 09 Sep 2002 12:22:39 GMT

b. Yes

Comments: Persons who will not be able to take part in the election can vote in advance, but not earlier than five days prior to the day of the election. They can vote at polling stations where they are registered.
Source: Code on Elections, article 53.
Last updated: Wed, 21 Aug 2002 19:36:01 GMT

e. Other

Comments: Persons who will not be able to take part in the election can vote in advance, but not earlier than five days prior to the day of the election. They can vote at polling stations where they are registered.
Source: Code on Elections, article 53.
Last updated: Wed, 21 Aug 2002 19:36:27 GMT

a. Everyone

Source: Code on Elections, article 53.
Last updated: Wed, 17 Jul 2002 09:16:24 GMT

a. Yes

Source: Code on Elections, article 17.
Last updated: Wed, 17 Jul 2002 09:17:20 GMT

a. Yes, the maximum capacity is: 3.000

Comments: The minimum number of registered voters must be 20 and the maximum 3.000.
Source: Code on Elections, article 17.
Last updated: Mon, 09 Sep 2002 12:24:21 GMT

a. By manually marking the ballot

Source: Code on Elections, article 52.
Last updated: Mon, 09 Sep 2002 12:24:55 GMT

a. The smallest polling station: 5
b. The largest polling station: 19

Source: Ms. Lidia Ermoshina - Chairperson of the Central Commission of the Republic of the Belarus on Elections and Holding of Republican Referendums. centrizb@pmrb.gov.by
Last updated: Wed, 21 Aug 2002 19:38:19 GMT

a. hours: 4

Source: Ms. Lidia Ermoshina - Chairperson of the Central Commission of the Republic of the Belarus on Elections and Holding of Republican Referendums. centrizb@pmrb.gov.by
Last updated: Wed, 21 Aug 2002 19:38:40 GMT

a. hours: 6

Source: Ms. Lidia Ermoshina - Chairperson of the Central Commission of the Republic of the Belarus on Elections and Holding of Republican Referendums. centrizb@pmrb.gov.by
Last updated: Wed, 21 Aug 2002 19:39:01 GMT

c. 18

Source: Code on Elections, chapter 1.
Last updated: Wed, 17 Jul 2002 08:53:46 GMT

a. Citizenship

Source: Code on Elections, article 4.
Last updated: Wed, 17 Jul 2002 08:54:30 GMT

a. Criminal Incarceration

c. Detention

d. Mental disability

f. Multiple Citizenship

Comments: d) Persons found incapable by the court.
Source: Code on Elections, article 4.
Last updated: Wed, 21 Aug 2002 19:31:31 GMT

c. Local Government Authority

Source: Code on Elections, article 19.
Last updated: Wed, 17 Jul 2002 08:56:27 GMT

b. Voters register

Source: Code on Elections, chapter 2.
Last updated: Wed, 17 Jul 2002 08:57:03 GMT

c. Periodically (or before each election)

Source: Code on Elections, articles 20 and 21.
Last updated: Wed, 21 Aug 2002 19:32:12 GMT

b. Links to police records of residence

f. Door-to-door registration campaign

Source: Ms. Lidia Ermoshina - Chairperson of the Central Commission of the Republic of the Belarus on Elections and Holding of Republican Referendums. centrizb@pmrb.gov.by
Last updated: Wed, 21 Aug 2002 19:32:34 GMT

a. Yes

Source: Ms. Lidia Ermoshina - Chairperson of the Central Commission of the Republic of the Belarus on Elections and Holding of Republican Referendums. centrizb@pmrb.gov.by
Last updated: Wed, 28 Aug 2002 09:08:11 GMT