Marc Garneau, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Canada, on Sunday announced that the country will provide $2.25 million (US$1.76 million) to support civil society organizations who are working to help advance democracy in Belarus, Global Affairs Canada reported.

“This support is in addition to a previous announcement of $600,000 to respond to the needs of civil society in Belarus, with a focus on women and independent media. The new funding will help strengthen the diversity, sustainability, and effectiveness of Belarussian civil society as they advocate for their rights and civil liberties to be respected,” Global Affairs Canada added.