Event

Impact of Belarus’s sham election on regime stability

This event hosted by UK think tank Chatham House will explore the current state and future of Aliaksandr Lukashenka’s rule at its ‘vulnerable’ voting time.

Just ahead of the state-orchestrated voting exercise on 26 January, analysts and observers assess what this campaign says about Belarus and its future, and whether anything has changed significantly. 

Experts address key questions, including:

• Is Lukashenka’s regime stronger than ever? What factors contribute to its resilience? What lessons can Western states learn about autocracies’ durability? (Or is Belarus sui generis?)
• Is any form of dialogue between Lukashenka and the West possible? (Or desirable at present?) What kind of Western policy is needed to promote sovereignty and democracy in Belarus? (Or is that asking too much?) Can Lukashenka offer anything meaningful on regional security? (Or does it all boil down to the path Russia takes?)
• Does the regime have a plan to transform itself and replace its aging leader? Can the West use the transition of power in Belarus to strengthen its interests?

In person places are limited, please wait for confirmation before attending.

The institute occupies a position of respect and trust, and is committed to fostering inclusive dialogue at all events. Event attendees are expected to uphold this by adhering to our code of conduct.

Speakers

Event chaired by James Nixey.

James Nixey – Director, Russia and Eurasia Programme

Dr Ryhor Astapenia – Belarus Initiative Director, Russia and Eurasia Programme

Alesia Rudnick – Director, Center for New Ideas