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In Belarus crackdown, bitter humour to stem the pain

As the crackdown continues in Belarus, protesters have responded with humour - but UN action, or sanctions, could really help.

In Belarus crackdown, bitter humour to stem the pain
Belarusian riot police during a protest in Minsk on 20 September | CC ASA 3.0 Homoatrox / Wikipedia. Some rights reserved
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The brutal response to widespread post-electoral protests in Belarus has brought one tragic account after another of violence by security forces and torture in detention. But some Belarusians have been turning to dark humour on Google Reviews to describe a certain facility on Okrestina street, outside of the capital Minsk. Some are rather positive:

The complex has a wide fleet of vehicles, so they can pick you up from anywhere in the city!” one post says. “I note the comfort of transport; a sauna is built inside, and a team of professional massage therapists is waiting for you! Not surprisingly, the complex is overcrowded, but don't worry, there is a place for everyone!

Sleeping on a flat, hard surface is good for your back,” another says. “I slept like a dead man. I will repeat it – it’s great place to relax. You just can't get your friends and family out of there!