May 16, 2022

Belarus Cracks Down


Belarus Cracks Down
This architecture just screams "human rights." Belarus's Government House, Minsk. Wikimedia Commons, Suicasmo.

Belarus's parliament is currently debating a new law that would impose the death penalty on individuals convicted of "domestic terrorism." However, according to many, the law isn't quite what it seems.

While the legislation specifies that it aims to "deter destructive elements," if passed, the measure would severely crack down on dissent and anti-war protests. Among those already convicted are protestors from the 2020 anti-Lukashenko protests, which ended with the rifle-toting, mustachioed dictator fleeing in a helicopter, and saboteurs who attempted to stifle Russian reinforcements to Ukraine in the more recent conflict.

The new law echoes increased repressions against dissent in Russia. Belarus is one of only a handful of nations supporting Russia in its ongoing invasion of Ukraine.

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