Topic: Bitcoin is Used to Aid Belarus Protestors (Read 413 times)
I believe cryptocurrency can play a key role in fleeing people from dictatorships. Dictators world over have a tendency of freezing the financial sources of their subjects or opponents. Since it's impossible to freeze cryptocurrency, the oppressed have a lifeline. They can stand up to their oppressors and say enough is enough.
This situation may become very unusual in history of this country and in the world history as well. But it is a bit ambiguous. From one side it may help BTC become more popular as a good example of new opportunities comparing with ordinary banking cards or fiat money, but from the other side it is not clear nowadays will it give something more for developing of BTC and mass adoption there and in the whole world. I can add only that it is a pity that different political processes are very often associated with technological things and good ideas and products. But sometimes it helps to develop and to attract mass attention to some directions and processes.
Very true. And while the Belarus case may not help in the development of BTC, at least it gives a somewhat level playing field between the oppressive regime and its subject. When the regime cut funding sources for the opposition, BTC ensured that they got the much-needed funds. It ensured that they're not suffocated by their oppressors. If the same can be replicated in other such countries, the world would be a much better place.
Taking into account all that is happening in Belarus, it can be assumed that in the near future, crypto-transactions will be prohibited on the territory of the republic, obviously if this initiative with support in crypto-currencies continues.
And the participants, naturally, will receive criminal liability, as is the case now. The regime will stifle protests at all costs.
This is still very interesting information. It's nice to know that the international community is supporting the protesters in Belarus with bitcoins. I do not think that dictator Lukashenko and those who still support him will have enough time and, most importantly, opportunities to block the access of cryptocurrency to the country. Money that will be transferred directly to cryptocurrency wallets cannot be tracked. The difficulty will be represented by the translation of bitcoins or other cryptocurrency into dollars or local currency. Here, the influence of administrative levers of power is quite possible.And the participants, naturally, will receive criminal liability, as is the case now. The regime will stifle protests at all costs.
We will closely observe the struggle of the people against their dictator, on whose hands the blood of many of his political opponents during these 26 years in power.
The fact is that it is extremely difficult to cash out cryptocurrency in Belarus. In Russia, this is much easier to do, using, for example, a number of exchangers, like best change.
However, there are no such services in Belarus, and Belarusian banks operate in a closed ecosystem. That is, transfers from Russian cards to Belarusian cards are not possible.
Obviously, the flow of cryptocurrencies itself cannot be stopped, however, the methods of cashing out can easily be blocked, given their small initial amount.
If all this is happening legally, then I support it.
How exactly is 'legally' defined here?From the POV of the government, those protestors are a pain in the ass and helping them would be called "illegal".
Using bitcoin to fund a rally is not good as it would be a bad precedent in other countries. This could lead to the stricter government on bitcoin and cryptocurrencies. Crypto was born for more convenient payment, not for any political purpose. I am very concerned.
Crypto is a currency, bad or good can be seen from different point of view. I'm pretty sure nobody have problems if you help people that are oppressed and live in fear due to dictatorship. Even if they ban crypto in general, P2P transaction is still possible. Instead of spending money with little results, I bet they'd rather legalize and get taxes from it.
Using bitcoin to fund a rally is not good as it would be a bad precedent in other countries. This could lead to the stricter government on bitcoin and cryptocurrencies. Crypto was born for more convenient payment, not for any political purpose. I am very concerned.
This is still very interesting information. It's nice to know that the international community is supporting the protesters in Belarus with bitcoins. I do not think that dictator Lukashenko and those who still support him will have enough time and, most importantly, opportunities to block the access of cryptocurrency to the country. Money that will be transferred directly to cryptocurrency wallets cannot be tracked. The difficulty will be represented by the translation of bitcoins or other cryptocurrency into dollars or local currency. Here, the influence of administrative levers of power is quite possible.
We will closely observe the struggle of the people against their dictator, on whose hands the blood of many of his political opponents during these 26 years in power.
We will closely observe the struggle of the people against their dictator, on whose hands the blood of many of his political opponents during these 26 years in power.
With this, we can see that bitcoin isn't just for investment, but also for freedom of the people from the hands of state control. If you are watching vlog created by Bald and Bankrupt, a youtube content creator, he always highlight belarus and Chernobyl, most of the people outside the capital doesn't really have an internet connection so the news is too slow. I wonder how cryptocurrency such as bitcoin could make a revolution for this people. Aside from the protest, it was also mentioned here that belarus might also use crypto to bypass sanctions source
The situation in Belarus is the result of a long-standing autocratic regime that relies heavily on Russian support. What’s different now is the involvement of the West doing the same thing it did with Ukraine a few years ago - all with the goal of getting Belarus out of the Russian grip. Yet it is unlikely that anything can change here without a strong internal insurgency already rooted in mass arrests, physical abuse and large numbers of those who have already fled the country.
I am glad to see that in this case Bitcoin is presented in a positive context as something that helps the oppressed, and this way of helping cannot be prevented by the authorities. But like some others, I ask if BTC can help people there, can they buy something for it or convert it into local currency?
Although it is well known that the regime has no mercy on those who protest, I am particularly fascinated by the fact that it is women who show the greatest resistance facing the violence of Lukashenko’s rabid dogs - so they deserve every help and support that can be given to them.
https://twitter.com/nexta_tv/status/1303444958003769345
I am glad to see that in this case Bitcoin is presented in a positive context as something that helps the oppressed, and this way of helping cannot be prevented by the authorities. But like some others, I ask if BTC can help people there, can they buy something for it or convert it into local currency?
Although it is well known that the regime has no mercy on those who protest, I am particularly fascinated by the fact that it is women who show the greatest resistance facing the violence of Lukashenko’s rabid dogs - so they deserve every help and support that can be given to them.
https://twitter.com/nexta_tv/status/1303444958003769345
Taking into account all that is happening in Belarus, it can be assumed that in the near future, crypto-transactions will be prohibited on the territory of the republic, obviously if this initiative with support in crypto-currencies continues.
And the participants, naturally, will receive criminal liability, as is the case now. The regime will stifle protests at all costs.
This is still very interesting information. It's nice to know that the international community is supporting the protesters in Belarus with bitcoins. I do not think that dictator Lukashenko and those who still support him will have enough time and, most importantly, opportunities to block the access of cryptocurrency to the country. Money that will be transferred directly to cryptocurrency wallets cannot be tracked. The difficulty will be represented by the translation of bitcoins or other cryptocurrency into dollars or local currency. Here, the influence of administrative levers of power is quite possible.And the participants, naturally, will receive criminal liability, as is the case now. The regime will stifle protests at all costs.
We will closely observe the struggle of the people against their dictator, on whose hands the blood of many of his political opponents during these 26 years in power.
Everything is good and nice till one tiny detail which might ruin the whole thing.
Let's get over the fact that this might actually sound also like bribery but are they actually telling people to go in the open and make their opinion public and having them turned into targets for this regime? We all know they are arresting everyone suspicious, those people will be sitting ducks if the protest fails to overthrow the regime.
Quote
To qualify for a stimulus of 1,500 euros in bitcoin, applicants must provide documentation of dismissal or participation in protests and publicly declare their political position.
Let's get over the fact that this might actually sound also like bribery but are they actually telling people to go in the open and make their opinion public and having them turned into targets for this regime? We all know they are arresting everyone suspicious, those people will be sitting ducks if the protest fails to overthrow the regime.
About that, it is these people that are already being targetted by the regime, lost their jobs in the private/corporate sector because of their political views and actively participate in the demonstrations. It seems to be the only way to transfer funds to Belarus from a foreign country as the government has also stopped all foreign fiat entering.
The forklog article is in Russian if I'm not mistaken so this could be a case of wrong translation. In Bitcoin_bullish's post, it says "Publicly declare their citizenship in a video message". I don't know which one is correct.
The translator I used gave the word citizenship. I looked at their website again and it seems they changed to filling a google form and they say they will contact the person in need and discuss the situation. They seem to also offer relocation to another city if needed and job opportunities.Elections in Belarus, protests and economic hurdles
It is important to add that Belarus is one of the poorest countries in Europe, minimum wage is around $100, and the rest official data is manipulated by the government to a point that it is hard to make a valid analysis.
I checked, and while the minimum wage is still low, it's now 375 Belarusian rubles or $140. As for the protests and totalitarianism, you are absolutely right. It's inspiring and unique that Belarus is finally fighting for a change, and I hope they'll succeed with their demand of fair elections.It is important to add that Belarus is one of the poorest countries in Europe, minimum wage is around $100, and the rest official data is manipulated by the government to a point that it is hard to make a valid analysis.
I found many sources one was claiming it is 90 euro and one that it is $117 so I've written ~100. It may has to do with the exchange rates changing and reports coming from different time.
I looked the exchange rate today 1BYN=0,38USD and multiplying with 375 Belarus Ruble (which is the minimum wage) it give us $142.5 as a result. Thanks for pointing this.(I corrected the post).
Thanks to that NGO and they're helping their people in these hard times. Not that they're only tackling with the electoral protest and their government but also with the pandemic.
The website of Bysol is not secure as my browser tells me, you can suggest them to make the SSL secure.
The website of Bysol is not secure as my browser tells me, you can suggest them to make the SSL secure.
Everything is good and nice till one tiny detail which might ruin the whole thing.
The forklog article is in Russian if I'm not mistaken so this could be a case of wrong translation. In Bitcoin_bullish's post, it says "Publicly declare their citizenship in a video message". I don't know which one is correct.Quote
To qualify for a stimulus of 1,500 euros in bitcoin, applicants must provide documentation of dismissal or participation in protests and publicly declare their political position.
Quote
One more thing, as I was wondering what were they going to do with those bitcoins once received.
Hehe. All the "donation" coming will all be useless if the Banks and other financial institutions stops providing liquidity to Trustee wallet. Quote
BYSOL partnered with the Ukrainian startup Trustee Wallet, which allows users to connect the wallet to a bank card. Then the applicants share their bitcoin addresses, receive bitcoin and swap it for fiat right in the app, receiving money on their debit cards.
Eugene Romanenko said about stores ready to accept bitcoin but never mentioned how many. It will probably take hundreds of stores to participate for it to be successful. If it's just a dozen, that won't be enough for me. They will be forced to closed down sooner or later because they can't replenish their stocks since they're stuck with btc.
It's time for the Belarusian people to shine. They truly deserve a better government.
However, with the worsening situation, does the Belarusian Solidarity Fund have wallets deep enough to be able to provide each and every qualified citizen with €1,500 one time payment in Bitcoin? How long would this assistance last? And would the government allow licensed businesses to continue operating with their goods and services priced in cryptocurrencies, thereby "bypassing fiat?"
While this looks like an insurmountable battle for the protesters as the state remains to be very powerful and still has the general control of the media and large manufacturing companies, I hope this will eventually end up in their favor.
However, with the worsening situation, does the Belarusian Solidarity Fund have wallets deep enough to be able to provide each and every qualified citizen with €1,500 one time payment in Bitcoin? How long would this assistance last? And would the government allow licensed businesses to continue operating with their goods and services priced in cryptocurrencies, thereby "bypassing fiat?"
While this looks like an insurmountable battle for the protesters as the state remains to be very powerful and still has the general control of the media and large manufacturing companies, I hope this will eventually end up in their favor.
It is a sad situation that Belarusians are living with a government that exercises its power without giving it the opportunity to choose.
The protests are the reflection of the discontent of the people for the management of a tyrant ruler and the citizens do not want to lose faith to rescue their country from oppression.
Aid for Protestants in Bitcoin is a well-accomplished effort by this organization to send funds to families who have lost their means of income.
I am glad that families in Belarus are benefited with Bitcoin and learn how to use it.
The protests are the reflection of the discontent of the people for the management of a tyrant ruler and the citizens do not want to lose faith to rescue their country from oppression.
Aid for Protestants in Bitcoin is a well-accomplished effort by this organization to send funds to families who have lost their means of income.
I am glad that families in Belarus are benefited with Bitcoin and learn how to use it.
1500 EUR is a pretty big sum of money for people in Belarus where minimum wage is around 150 USD a month.
Well, it is basically about as much as you'd earn for an year of work, and that surely is helpful.It's awesome to hear that Bitcoin is being used as an aid in countries where living is turning into a struggle rather than a necessity. However, the categories of people meeting the requirements makes it look like the Belarus's government will turn their weapons against these guys for providing help to those they considered to be enemies. I guess that by dismissing a worker they're looking to put the said person into a bad situation to confront.
those who dont care about politics can easily accept the qualification requirements. because at the end of the day, can you eat your political position? i dont think so.
and the amount is really big if you compare it to their regular min wage. i guess many people will avail this offer.
they will swallow whatever is their political opinion and get their money to survive.
Everything is good and nice till one tiny detail which might ruin the whole thing.
Let's get over the fact that this might actually sound also like bribery but are they actually telling people to go in the open and make their opinion public and having them turned into targets for this regime? We all know they are arresting everyone suspicious, those people will be sitting ducks if the protest fails to overthrow the regime.
One more thing, as I was wondering what were they going to do with those bitcoins once received.
Quote
To qualify for a stimulus of 1,500 euros in bitcoin, applicants must provide documentation of dismissal or participation in protests and publicly declare their political position.
Let's get over the fact that this might actually sound also like bribery but are they actually telling people to go in the open and make their opinion public and having them turned into targets for this regime? We all know they are arresting everyone suspicious, those people will be sitting ducks if the protest fails to overthrow the regime.
One more thing, as I was wondering what were they going to do with those bitcoins once received.
Quote
BYSOL partnered with the Ukrainian startup Trustee Wallet, which allows users to connect the wallet to a bank card. Then the applicants share their bitcoin addresses, receive bitcoin and swap it for fiat right in the app, receiving money on their debit cards.
1500 EUR is a pretty big sum of money for people in Belarus where minimum wage is around 150 USD a month.
Well, it is basically about as much as you'd earn for an year of work, and that surely is helpful.It's awesome to hear that Bitcoin is being used as an aid in countries where living is turning into a struggle rather than a necessity. However, the categories of people meeting the requirements makes it look like the Belarus's government will turn their weapons against these guys for providing help to those they considered to be enemies. I guess that by dismissing a worker they're looking to put the said person into a bad situation to confront.
Thank you for explaining the current situation in the country, I hope the united majority will eventually win. All exit-polls and other social polls are banned there, but one independent poll of 50k people from all social layers of population says that the current corrupt president got up to 15% votes while the opposition candidate got up to 80%. This was even before mass arrests, beatings, rape and murders initiated by "special" police forces.
As to using BTC, it's definitely a good thing for adoption and pretty convenient way to help repressed families, but I feel like it'll soon be banned by law in some way or another
As to using BTC, it's definitely a good thing for adoption and pretty convenient way to help repressed families, but I feel like it'll soon be banned by law in some way or another
The hard felt truth is that this type of government lead tyranny isn't happening only in countries like these but many more. HK, Venezuela, Vietnam etc. In these type of circumstances BTC and similar crypto will for sure make certain things easier but cannot replace people's freedom.
Having said that, BTC sets example of the type of economy the future leaders must think about - the outdated principles can only go this long.
It is now in peoples' powers to take control, embrace innovation and fight for their rights as a unity. BTC can help create that unity.
Having said that, BTC sets example of the type of economy the future leaders must think about - the outdated principles can only go this long.
It is now in peoples' powers to take control, embrace innovation and fight for their rights as a unity. BTC can help create that unity.
Similar to what happened in HK. People from outside the country supporting the cause found a way to help those affected people through means of cryptocurrency. It can be seen as a heaven-sent solution on these dire situations but on different occasions, it can be used to support ill-intent and, well, terrorism. Anyway, Belarus is just one of those many countries that could have been great but is chained by the reins of a dictatorship that has done nothing but direct the country towards something bad.
And I think most people there would choose centrism any day than that of a failed communist regime which is being fed up to them by Lukashenko to gain the support of the masses that still believes in him.
And the protestors aren't necessarily pro free market, if you think about laissez faire capitalism - most of them are centrist liberals who just want to be more like their western european neighbors.
And I think most people there would choose centrism any day than that of a failed communist regime which is being fed up to them by Lukashenko to gain the support of the masses that still believes in him.
1500 EUR is a pretty big sum of money for people in Belarus where minimum wage is around 150 USD a month.
I feel like Belarus is only one of many corrupt countries in the former Soviet Union. Russia and Ukraine are pretty much the same and sending money there won't change a thing. I feel like it's another struggle between corrupt communist government and the free market revolutionists supported by the West.
I feel like Belarus is only one of many corrupt countries in the former Soviet Union. Russia and Ukraine are pretty much the same and sending money there won't change a thing. I feel like it's another struggle between corrupt communist government and the free market revolutionists supported by the West.
They aren't sending money "there", they are sending money to individuals who suffer from oppression of their regime. They aren't giving those money to some corrupt officials. Also, no one in power in those countries is communist anymore, Putin and Lukashenko sometimes use communism to appeal to nostalgic old people, and in Ukraine the communist ideology is at least de jure banned. And the protestors aren't necessarily pro free market, if you think about laissez faire capitalism - most of them are centrist liberals who just want to be more like their western european neighbors.
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