Belarusian opposition street actions start gathering more participants

Last week, Minsk hosted a traditional event dedicated to the Freedom Day, which was sanctioned by the city authorities. According to different estimates, the demonstration was attended by between one and two thousand people, including many young people. The law enforcement has neither interfered with the demonstration, nor detained participants, despite the fact that the opposition leaders had violated the permitted format and organized an unauthorized meeting. In addition to conventional for this day rhetoric in support for Belarus’ independence, some participants and organizers attempted to introduce political and social slogans. The absence of repressions after the 2015 presidential campaign and mild reactions by security forces to street activity, have made unsanctioned opposition activities more attractive for the people. If the law enforcement does not resume tough repressive measures to curb protest activity, traditional authorised opposition rallies are likely to gather more participants.