Story perspectives

Belarusian Filmmaker Spotlights Women's Courage Against Tyranny

11/7/2025

Summary

Story summary

Volia Chajkouskaya, a Belarusian filmmaker, will premiere "Not Made for Politics" at Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival.
The documentary centers on women from the 2020 protests against President Alexander Lukashenko, Europe’s last dictator.
The regime's violent crackdown spurred significant marches that challenged the narrative of female passivity.
Chajkouskaya has lived in Estonia since 2018 and says hope is a political tool.
The film highlights the courage of women resisting tyranny.

History

Historical Context

The 2020 Belarusian protests erupted after President Alexander Lukashenko was declared the winner of the disputed presidential election on August 9, 2020, amid allegations of fraud. Over 200,000 demonstrators, including many women, rallied against his 26-year rule, leading to significant repression. The protests highlighted the struggle for democracy in Eastern Europe and inspired ongoing activism against authoritarianism.

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Story summary

Volia Chajkouskaya, a Belarusian filmmaker, will premiere "Not Made for Politics" at Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival.
The documentary centers on women from the 2020 protests against President Alexander Lukashenko, Europe’s last dictator.
The regime's violent crackdown spurred significant marches that challenged the narrative of female passivity.
Chajkouskaya has lived in Estonia since 2018 and says hope is a political tool.
The film highlights the courage of women resisting tyranny.

1 / 2