Belarus's Lukashenko Pardons 37 Political Prisoners in Continued Crackdown

The authoritarian leader's move is seen as an attempt to soften his image ahead of the 2025 presidential election.

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko pardoned 37 individuals convicted of 'extremist' crimes, including six women.
This marks the fourth round of pardons since July, raising the total number to 115 pardoned political prisoners.
Human rights groups report over 1,300 political prisoners remain in Belarus, with at least six deaths in custody.
Observers suggest Lukashenko's actions aim to improve his image and negotiate with the West before next year's election.
Despite the pardons, harsh repression continues, with around 400 activists detained in the past three months.