VOICED : Belarussian exiles decry

The transcript discusses the political repression in Belarus under President Alexander Lukashenko, labeled as Europe's last dictator. It highlights the protests against his reelection in 2010, leading to the imprisonment of dissidents. Natalia, an editor of an independent Belarusian news site, was tortured and fled to Lithuania. The transcript describes the illusion of democratic elections in Belarus, the control over media, and the role of Belsat TV in providing uncensored news. Despite the oppressive regime, Belarusian dissidents remain hopeful for change, inspired by the Arab Spring.

What event led to the imprisonment of protesters in Belarus in 2010?

• A rigged presidential election

• A financial crisis

• A foreign invasion

• A natural disaster

What role does Belsat TV play in Belarus?

• It broadcasts government propaganda

• It is a music channel

• It provides uncensored news to Belarusians

• It is a sports channel

How are members of the Belarusian Parliament described in the transcript?

• As foreign diplomats

• As leaders of political parties

• As civil servants installed by the regime

• As independent decision-makers

What is the main goal of Belarusian dissidents in Poland?

• To work for political change in Belarus

• To establish a new monarchy

• To increase tourism in Belarus

• To promote economic reforms

What inspired Belarusian dissidents to believe in change?

• The French Revolution

• The American Revolution

• The Arab Spring

• The fall of the Berlin Wall