Belarus: the end of a dictatorship?

Belarus is gripped by nationwide protests, triggered by what is seen as an unfair election, rigged in favour of the country’s authoritarian president, Alexander Lukashenko.

Violent clashes have led to the arrest of more than 6000 people, with many reporting beatings and torture at the hands of the police.

President Lukashenko has told protestors they would have to kill him before there was another election – but are the days numbered for the man described as Europe’s last dictator? Contributors:

David Marples, professor of history, University of Alberta

Brian Klaas, associate professor in global politics, University College London

Olga Dryndova, editor of Belarus-Analysen, University of Bremen

Elena Korosteleva, professor of international politics, University of Kent

Team: Richard Fenton-Smith, Beth Sagar-Fenton, Kirsteen Knight Studio Manager: James Beard Editor: Jasper Corbett