Lukashenko Pardons 37 Political Prisoners in Belarus

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko has pardoned 37 individuals convicted of 'extremist' crimes, marking the fourth wave of pardons since July and bringing the total to 115 since then. The pardoned group includes six women, as well as pensioners, disabled individuals, and those with chronic illnesses, although none of the names have been disclosed. Analysts suggest these releases may be an attempt by Lukashenko to improve his image and repair ties with the West, despite the ongoing detention of around 1,300 political prisoners. Human rights groups have welcomed the pardons but emphasize they do not signify a genuine policy shift, as many political activists remain imprisoned and the regime continues its crackdown on dissent. Lukashenko's government has faced significant criticism for its handling of protests that erupted in 2020 after a disputed election, leading to mass arrests and accusations of human rights abuses. The pardons come just ahead of National Unity Day, underscoring the regime's narrative of 'humanism' towards those it deems to have 'stumbled'.