Truly devoted to his liberal sensibilities, Mr. Milinkevich was jailed as recently as 2006 for his key involvement in a large scale street protest against the Belarussian dictatorship

He was the presidential candidate from United Democratic Forces during the 2006 presidential election in Belarus. His enduring contribution to the local development of democratization and human rights has not only inspired people in Belarus, but all across the western world. As a result, he has won the European Parliament’s 2006 Sakharov Prize for ‘Freedom of Thought’.

During the early nineties he served as the vice-chairman of a cultural committee in his hometown of Hrodna. Mr. Milinkevich has also enjoyed a long and decorated academic career as a Professor of Physics at the state state university in Hrodna.
Mr Milinkevich is an auspicious and long-standing figure dedicated to promoting the values of liberty and democracy. He is strong in his belief that that the path to democarcy is the only opportunity for future generations of Belarusians. He also believes in free elections, freedom of the media, and to secure Belarus’ independence from Russia.

In 2006 shortly after the Belarusian presidential election in March, Mr Milinkevich called for non-violent resistance, saying, ‘We need to overcome the fear which over the last ten years has been planted in people’s spirits by unceasing propaganda.’  Supporters of Mr Milinkevich gathered in a square in Minsk, including a large number of students. They were arrested and imprisoned, as well as expelled from their universities for their democratic convictions. The protest was the largest anti-governmental protest in ten years. The staging of this protest was further proof that peaceful opposition is a means to change any climate of fear.

Mr Milinkevich is the author of 65 scientific works on quantum electronics, laser technical equipment, cultural history, education, and architecture.

He is married and has two sons.  His hobbies include history and Belarusian traditions and customs.

Main Image:  European People’s Party, Wikimedia Commons