Tsikhanouskaya’s Office: Consolidation and Protection of Activists

The democratic forces are adjusting their approaches and rhetoric concerning Lukashenka’s “elections.” Political organizations aim to reduce risks for activists and supporters of change amidst escalating repression. Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya’s coalition has demonstrated progress in diplomatic, humanitarian, and legal efforts to protect sympathizers.

As the voting date approaches, Lukashenka’s “elections” have become a central topic in Belarusian political discourse. The leader of democratic Belarus, Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, has publicly urged citizens to avoid participating in the electoral campaign and refrain from protests. This decision responds to heightened repression: Lukashenka’s campaign is unfolding in an increasingly repressive environment, with the regime continuously intensifying pressure and suppressing any activity.

The call to “ignore” the elections may signify a shift in mobilization tactics, aiming to reduce risks for activists and supporters of change. Instead of actions within the country, Tsikhanouskaya’s office is focusing efforts on external pressure mechanisms.

Supporting Belarusians in exile remains a key priority for democratic forces. Poland has introduced “special measures” to issue humanitarian visas to Belarusians in Georgia. The Polish Ministry of Foreign Affairs is simplifying the process for issuing humanitarian visas to activists of the democratic movement residing in Georgia. This decision results from active diplomatic work and negotiations between Belarusian democratic forces and Polish authorities.

A Polish court has denied Lukashenka’s regime the extradition of activist Pleskachov. This successful case, facilitated by the United Transitional Cabinet, positively contributes to consolidating democratic activists around Tsikhanouskaya.

Democratic forces continue active cooperation with Lithuanian authorities, which is crucial for easing societal tensions in Lithuania regarding Belarusians. Vilnius will host the conference “Belarus – Lithuania: Toward the Future Through Shared Values.” The event will also feature Tsikhanouskaya and Lithuania’s First Deputy Speaker of the Seimas, Juozas Olekas.

Democratic forces are striving to mitigate the consequences of the international isolation faced by Belarusian society due to Lukashenka’s regime (involvement in Kremlin aggression in Ukraine and air piracy). Tsikhanouskaya’s coalition is building on the experience of strategic dialogue with Washington. Democratic forces and the Canadian government have launched strategic consultations in Ottawa.

The strategic dialogue reinforces Washington’s intent to explore mechanisms for supporting civil society. The U.S. Congress website has published the S.5116 “Bridge Act” bill. Under this act, the U.S. could recognize expired Belarusian passports and grant Belarusians temporary protection status. This would provide another tool to support Belarusians who lack access to state services due to political reasons.

Thus, democratic forces maintain an infrastructure to support and promote the interests of their sympathizers in communication with Western capitals.