Belarus unrest explained I FT

Synopsis

Alexander Lukashenko has ruled Belarus with an iron fist for 26 years, often referred to as Europe's last dictator. Following the presidential election on August 9, where he claimed an 80 percent victory despite widespread support for opposition candidate Svetlana de Khanovskaya, Belarus experiences its largest public protests in history. De Khanovskaya, a former housewife, flees to Lithuania, urging European leaders not to recognize the fraudulent elections. The protests intensify as workers strike in state-owned companies, traditionally supportive of Lukashenko. His regime faces significant challenges due to economic stagnation, corruption, and mishandling of the coronavirus pandemic, leading to a remarkable democratic awakening in Belarus. Despite losing legitimacy, Lukashenko remains defiant, relying on loyal security forces to maintain control.