elarussian dictator Aleksandr Lukashenko is often referred to as "Europe's Last Dictator." According to the U.S. State Department, he has manipulated the constitution to extend his term in office, the judiciary is an arm of his regime, and the government restricts freedom of the press. Journalists are imprisoned and political opponents are attacked for expressing opposition viewpoints.
Life has not improved since the fall of communism, according to FreedomHouse.org, and though unemployment remains low, more than 25% of citizens live in poverty, and the private sector's share of GDP is approximately 20%. Mr. Lukashenko does little to improve the economic situation of the country, preferring to focus his energies on selling weapons to countries like the Sudan and Iraq.
The Belarussian government censors the media and can shut down publications or networks for any reason they see fit. Writers and poets with dissenting views are deemed "undesirable" by the government while editors at publications are replaced if they do not support the regime. The right to free assembly is denied and when groups attempt to protest, police break up most demonstrations and protestors can be arrested. Religious freedom is ignored, and citizens have been arrested for worshipping in public. The "Laws on Religion" allow for censorship of religious publications, place limitations on religious faiths that have been in the country for less than 20 years, and prohibit foreigners from leading religious groups, according to FreedomHouse.org.
Authorities can use any means they determine necessary to spy on citizens. Wiretapping, arbitrary searches, and restricted mobility through the use of domestic passports are all mandates of the Lukashenko regime forced on innocent citizens. Even though the Soviet Union collapsed over a decade ago, most Belarusians have not had the chance to enjoy the benefits of freedom. The rights to a fair trial, to free speech and to freedom of worship, as well as the ability to democratically change their government through free and fair elections are all prohibited by Mr. Lukashenko. His declaration "our people live quietly and live well" is only half true. While Belarusians may live quietly, few would argue they live well.
