Political opposition in Belarus

Since the disputed presidential election in August 2020, in which Lukashenko claimed to have won with 80% of the vote, there have been widespread protests and civil unrest in Belarus. The opposition candidate, Svetlana Tikhanovskaya, who claimed to have won the election, was forced to flee the country and seek asylum in neighboring Lithuania.

The Belarusian authorities have cracked down hard on the opposition, arresting thousands of protesters, political activists, and journalists, many of whom have been subjected to torture and mistreatment in detention. The government has also banned opposition parties, closed down independent media outlets, and restricted internet access to suppress dissent.

The international community has condemned the human rights abuses and called for democratic reforms in Belarus. The European Union and the United States have imposed sanctions on Lukashenko and his government, including travel bans and asset freezes. However, the government has refused to engage in dialogue with the opposition or negotiate a peaceful resolution to the crisis.

The opposition movement in Belarus represents a growing desire for change and democratic reform in the country. The protesters have called for new elections, the release of political prisoners, and the establishment of an independent judiciary. Despite the government's crackdown, the opposition movement has continued to demonstrate resilience and determination, with regular protests and acts of civil disobedience.