Belarus: Additional protests possible in the coming days November 18 /update 1

Event

Preliminary parliamentary election results released in Belarus on Monday, November 18, indicated that no opposition group had won a seat in the parliament. Consequently, opposition groups have accused President Alexandre Loukachenko of falsifying election results. Protests or other political gatherings are possible in the coming days.

An increased security presence and associated transportation disruptions are to be expected; associated violence cannot be ruled out. 

Context

While protests are rare in the country, several anti-government protests have been held recently in Minsk ahead of the parliamentary elections. Protesters' demands, among others, have included the resignation of President Alexander Lukashenko and the release of political prisoners.

Advice

Individuals in Belarus are advised to monitor developments, avoid all political gatherings and polling sites as a precaution, anticipate a heightened security presence near such sites, and adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities.