Chernobyl Path: participation as low as ever

On April 26^th, the opposition held a traditionally rally ‘Chernobyl Path’ to commemorate the anniversary of the Chernobyl disaster, which was attended by a record low number of participants. The rally’s motto was “No to Russian nuclear threat”. In addition, this year, the government has seized the initiative and used the ‘Chernobyl Path’ brand for its own propaganda purposes (‘Chernobyl Path’ was formerly the largest mass rally organised by the opposition). The authorities have organised a series of cultural events in the Gomel region, and the regions most affected by the accident at the Chernobyl nuclear power plant, entitled “Chernobyl Path – the road of life”. By consistently raising the organisational costs for the opposition street protests (including persecution, fines, fees, municipal and police services costs, etc) the authorities have managed to minimise street activity.