Life in Belarus, the last European Dictatorship47

Belarus has been governed by President Alexander Lukashenko since 1994. Laws that restrict freedom of expression, association and peaceful assembly are in force. The life of Independent journalists, human rights activists and minorities are made difficult. Politically motivated court cases against political opponents and dissidents are common. Belarus is the last country in Europe where the death penalty is still being imposed and enforced.
Part of the photo project "In the Shadow of the Empire", a trip along the border of Russia from Caucasus, from the frozen conflict in Abkhazia to the ongoing conflict in eastern Ukraine and through Belarus dictatorship. Affected by war and dictatorship, this geopolitically important region remains under reported, as the access to vital issues for western media Is often restricted by militarized authorities.