Ivan Bacharenka
Civic-political activist and entrepreneur, representative of the new democratic Belarusian diaspora in the USA
Co-founder of the Association of Belarusians in America
In the democratic movement since his student years.
Background
As a student, supported Belarusian Christian Democracy. During his research work at the History Faculty of BSU, actively spoke out against repressions, usurpation of power, Russian military bases in Belarus, and the country's dependence on Russia.
Since 2013 — entrepreneur. Since 2014 — member of the "Belarusian Social-Democratic Hramada" party.
Political and civic activity
In emigration, focused on building a diaspora in North Carolina and developing ties with Belarusian communities in the USA.
- Founder of the "Belarusian Trails of the Carolinas" community. - Co-founder of the Association of Belarusians in America, member of the Main Board. - Organiser of cultural and educational events in the USA.
Works on transforming the diaspora into a structured political force. Publicly does not recognise the legitimacy of the regime, advocates for international pressure, release of political prisoners, and democratic transformation.
Priorities in the Coordination Council
- Protecting the rights of Belarusians abroad. - Engagement with US authorities. - Coordination and political subjectivity of the diaspora. - Supporting democratic change and political prisoners. - Popularising the Belarusian diaspora through events and cooperation with Americans.