Belarus: Opposition protest planned in Minsk on Oct. 21

Event

The Belarusian National Congress (BNC), an opposition group, is slated to hold the "Outraged Belarusians' March 2.0" on Saturday, October 21, in Minsk. The march will begin at 14:00 (local time) at Oktyabrskaya Square and will proceed down a yet-to-be-determined route. As the march has not been sanctioned by Belarusian authorities, an increased security presence is likely in the area and violent clashes between security forces and protesters are possible.

Context

Several opposition protests held in Belarus in 2017 have ended with the arrests of opposition leaders and activists. On May 1, an opposition protest drew 400 demonstrators, despite having been banned by the government.

Advice

Individuals in Minsk are advised to avoid any demonstrations and to keep abreast of the situation via local media outlets.