In recent weeks Naviband — Belarus’ Eurovision 2017 act — have joined pro-democracy protestors on the streets of Minsk. Like so many others, they’ve been calling for free and fair elections and an end to police violence.
Besides participating in marches, Naviband have also written “Девочка в белом” (Girl in White), an ode to all the girls, women and mothers who have been turning out to rallies week after week — often in the red and white colours of the banned flag of Belarus.
Now the duo — that’s Arciom Lukjanienka and Ksienija Zuk — have confirmed that the song, which has become an anthem for protestors, will be released on all digital platforms soon.
The song, which the group previously uploaded to IGTV, has become a battle cry for so many people dreaming of new leadership in their country. The lyrics are emotional, with Ksienija singing: “I believe there won’t be any more fear/ Our strength is faultless/ A proud girl in white”.
Protests continue in Belarus
Four weeks after President Alexander Lukashenko claimed victory in disputed elections in Belarus, protestors continue to take to the streets.
On Sunday tens of thousands of people gathered in the capital Minsk demanding free and fair elections following the August 9 poll, which is widely seen as rigged. Protestors want an end to police reprisals and the release of political prisoners.
On Saturday, hundreds of women wearing white and red — the colours of the opposition — marched through the capital chanting, “Hands off the children!” It was a defiant rebuke to authorities who have been rounding up student protestors in vans as demonstrations ramped up in a week that marked the return to university.
As ever, riot police are out in force. The BBC reports that they’ve deployed water cannon and have sealed off parts of the city centre, continuing a trend in recent weeks.
Despite the ongoing repression — and a clear message from Mr Lukashenko that he isn’t going anywhere — many of the country’s Eurovision stars remain defiant. They’re also serving as high-profile symbols of hope and strength for countless young people who are sharing their posts on social media and singing their songs at rallies.
Are you loving Naviband’s song? Do you admire their strength and courage in this difficult time? Let us know in the comments box below.
We have no choice but to stan.
wow, they truly are representing the new Belarus, a new, democraric a peaceful Belarus, Im so incredibly proud of them.
Naviband you are amazing! we love you and support you all the way!
VAL supported the protests too, so they more than likely will not come back in 2021.
unless the protests amount to something and boot lukashenko out
i’m surprised he hasn’t surrendered yet, the entire country HATES him idk how long he can last anymore
Well, he has Putin’s back and the EU, apart from the Baltic states and maybe Poland (and their homophobic government, sadly), shockingly doesn’t want to go against Putin, that sentiment is strong specially in Berlin and Paris.
Merkel has stated that she still wants to work and maintain good relationships with Putin’s Russia and their NordStream2 pipeline is another reason why Germany, head of the EU, isn’t willing to challenge Putin regarding Belarus.
I don’t even think Belarus will be on ESC next year
Even if they kick out Lucoshenko
Belarus will probably have a national selection which is a shame cuz Belarus was my favorite this year… Suh an underrated gem
Naviband will forever and always be Belarus’ greatest Eurovision representatives. Not for representing their horrible government, but for representing the powerful citizens, young and old, fighting for change. Will forever and always stan.
every day I just stan them a little bit more