Belarus may block social networks during elections
Last night, access to YouTube video hosting was cut off for several hours in Belarus. Reports also indicate issues with access to social networks like Discord, Twitch, TikTok, and Telegram.
These actions by Belarusian providers may signal that the authorities are preparing to block social networks during the presidential elections on January 26. By limiting access to information, the Belarusian government aims to hinder coordination during potential protests.
The 2020 presidential election in Belarus saw mass protests over vote-rigging in favor of Aleksandr Lukashenko. The European Union did not recognize the elections as free and fair, nor Lukashenko as the legitimate president. There are five candidates registered for the 2025 elections, but there is no real political competition.
