Problems remain for independent journalism in Belarus
The situation has not changed
Despite raised hopes, a full turn toward Europe seems unlikely.
Do recent events indicate that Belarus could fully turn towards Europe and pull away from Russia politically? In the last few months, a number of developments have excited observers in international media and revitalised old debates about the former Soviet country’s future. But despite positive indications, a broader view suggests that this prediction may be overly optimistic.
In the judgment of most media freedom or democracy indexes, the Eastern European country is labelled as one of the worst in Europe and in recent years Belarus has shown no tangible progress towards establishing a free media atmosphere.
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Once a week, in coordination with a group of prominent Belarusian analysts, we provide analytical commentaries on the most topical and relevant issues, including the behind-the-scenes processes occurring in Belarus. These commentaries are available in Belarusian, Russian, and English.
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Situation in Belarus
November 4 – November 10
Constitutional referendum: main consequences
April 12, 2022
Speakers: Anatoliy Lebedko, Andrei Kazakevich
Video
How to count the political prisoners: are the new criteria needed?
March 28, 2022
Speakers: Aleh Hulak, Aleh Aheyeu, Viachaslau Kasinierau
Video
Paternalism In Decline, Belarusian Euroscepticism, And The Influence Of Russia
October 11, 2021
Video
Launching Soon: A Union News Aggregator for the News That Doesn’t Exist
November 4 – November 10
The Investment Boom Period Has Ended
October 28 – November 3
Belarus Joins BRICS: Another Brick in a Wall Without Mortar
October 21 – October 27
“Atomic Victory”: The Enemies Want to Steal It Too
October 14 – October 20
What Does Trump’s Victory Mean for Belarus-West Relations?
November 4 – November 10
Lukashenka Advocates for Negotiations with Ukraine but Is Ready to Lend Military Support to Russia Again if Necessary
October 28 – November 3
Peacemaking without Normalization: Writing “BRICS” with the West in Mind
October 21 – October 27
Lukashenka’s Regime Gained Modest Attention from the U.S.
October 14 – October 20
What Does Trump’s Peace Plan for Ukraine Mean for Belarus?
November 4 – November 10
The Dubious Contribution of Minsk to Eurasian Security: A Second Attempt
October 28 – November 3
Preparation for a New Strike on Ukraine: Minsk and Moscow Approve the Concept for the Strategic Maneuvers “Zapad-2025”
October 21 – October 27
Russia is amassing missile weapons in Belarus ahead of large-scale joint maneuvers in 2025
October 14 – October 20
Democratic Forces: Diversification of Risks in Relations with the West
November 4 – November 10
The Democratic Forces’ Electoral Agenda: Avoiding Repression
October 28 – November 3
Elections 2025: Are Democratic Forces Out of the Game?
October 21 – October 27
Democratic Forces: Walking the Razor’s Edge of Repression
October 14 – October 20
Elections 2025: Forcing Society into Total Loyalty to the Lukashenka’s Regime
November 4 – November 10
Elections-2025: “Standby” Candidates of the Regime
October 28 – November 3
Elections 2025: In Anticipation of “Black Swans”
October 21 – October 27
Elections 2025: Lukashenka Strives to Regain Legitimacy with Carrots and Sticks
October 14 – October 20