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October 26 – November 1, 2015

Public campaign on social networks prompted authorities to soften repressions

The situation has not changed
Public campaign on social networks prompted authorities to soften repressions

The Education Ministry has commented on the story with the students of the Brest Regional Cadet School, who have photographed in T-shirts with the “Pahonia” coat of arms under their uniforms. Initially, the media reported that the cadets were expelled from the school by the administration for posting photos with the “Pahonia” symbol on their T-shirts on the Internet. Social networks reacted immediately with a campaign in support for the students. Most likely, the campaign in social networks and information pressure have influenced the government’s decision to abandon the use of rigid repressive measures against young people and forced the school administration to revoke the expulsion. Until now, politicized campaigns in social networks have not had any noticeable impact on the authorities, especially with regard to easing repression against their opponents. However, online activity is unlikely to lead to greater a number of participants in the opposition activities, including street rallies and election campaigns.

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