Belarusian opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, the biggest challenger of President Alexander Lukashenko, continues her fight for a free Belarus from exile. After Lukashenko dismissed her as a “housewife,” Tsikhanouskaya entered the race for the presidency in 2020, becoming his greatest challenge. Forced to flee Belarus after Lukashenko rigged the elections in his favor, Tsikhanouskaya is now working on building strong relations with political leaders from Western countries to prepare for a transition period in Belarus. Her ultimate goal is to release political prisoners, have free and fair elections, and bring democracy to her country.
In her efforts to build a democracy in exile, Tsikhanouskaya urges Western democracies to support the Belarusian cause. She emphasizes the importance of keeping political prisoners from becoming bargaining chips in negotiations with Lukashenko, who she believes will only use them to further his own agenda. Tsikhanouskaya remains resolute in her stance against dealing or making deals with Lukashenko, as she believes it will lead to more suffering for the Belarusian people who are already living in fear of repression and violence under his regime.
Despite Lukashenko’s plans to hold presidential elections in 2025, Tsikhanouskaya believes it is not the right moment for the Belarusian opposition to enter the game. With many leaders of democratic movements in prison or exile, civil society organizations dismantled, and people living in constant fear of repression, the opposition is biding their time. However, the lack of support for Lukashenko among the Belarusian people is becoming more evident as they continue to resist his regime.
While Tsikhanouskaya is not planning to return to Belarus for the 2025 elections, she is preparing for a moment of opportunity to mobilize the Belarusian people for change. She is also actively supporting the Ukrainian people in their fight against the Russian aggression, emphasizing the importance of solidarity between the two nations facing similar challenges. Despite recent policy changes in Poland regarding Belarusian asylum seekers, Tsikhanouskaya remains grateful for their support over the years and hopes to clarify any misunderstandings with the Polish government.
Tsikhanouskaya’s thoughts are constantly with Belarus, as she misses her family, home, and the memories of her childhood spent in her homeland. However, her determination to see a free Belarus drives her to continue her fight from exile. With a focus on building international support, keeping political prisoners safe from manipulation, and preparing for a future opportunity to push back against Lukashenko’s regime, Tsikhanouskaya remains a symbol of hope and resilience for the people of Belarus.
