TikTok and the Belarusian Presidency: Examining the Social Media Portrayal of Alexander Lukashenko

The recent TikTok video by @bellatruth showcasing Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko has sparked discussion about the portrayal of political figures on social media. The video, featuring short clips of Lukashenko interacting with citizens and working in a field, presents a highly positive and arguably selective image of the president. While the video's brevity and lack of context limit its analytical value, it does highlight the potential for social media to shape public perception. The use of English text in the video also raises questions about its intended audience and the international dissemination of such content. Further investigation into the source and selection of the video clips is needed to determine their accuracy and objectivity. This case study underscores the need for critical media literacy in the age of social media, where curated content can easily shape public opinion.