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The appeal was signed by three winners of the Nobel literature
prize including Belarusian writer Svetlana Alexievich, as well
as by seven peace laureates and 45 winners in science and
economics.
"It is unacceptable to subject the people of your country to
severe trials and harsh conditions solely for their beliefs.
Every person has the right to their opinion and deserves respect
for their individuality," the signatories wrote to Lukashenko.
"You have a unique opportunity to turn the page on the past and
enter history not only as an uncompromising ruler but also as a
political leader who has shown wisdom and compassion,
responsible to your people and their future."
Belarusian human rights group Viasna said 18 political prisoners
were released at the start of this month, including Ryhor
Kastusiou, a veteran opposition figure suffering from cancer.
But the rare pardon still leaves some 1,400 people behind bars
for political activity.
Lukashenko staged a violent crackdown in 2020 to suppress
peaceful mass protests following an election that the opposition
and Western governments said he had heavily rigged.
A close ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin, Lukashenko has
ruled Belarus for three decades.
(Reporting by Mark Trevelyan; Editing by Gareth Jones)
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