The deputy minister of internal affairs in Belarus, Major General Gennady Kazakevich, recently signaled a forthcoming shift in citizen engagement, describing it as a TikTok driven movement. This observation was reported by the Belarusian television network STV and has sparked conversations about how digital platforms shape public action and policy responses across the region.
In an interview with journalist Olga Korshun, Kazakevich expanded on the idea that the next wave of political activity could hinge on advances in artificial intelligence. He noted that the TikTok platform already shows capabilities to generate synthetic voices and build convincing virtual personas. Such developments raise questions about whether ordinary citizens can reliably distinguish between authentic officials and AI-created representations, a challenge that could influence perceptions and trust in public figures around the world.
Kazakevich indicated that leadership within Belarus’s Main Directorate for Combating Organized Crime views this potential AI powered transformation as a central element of future upheavals. He cited a Russian example from a year ago, where rapid online mobilization on TikTok prompted tens of thousands of young people to confront riot police in a short period. In his view, artificial intelligence and neural networks are becoming tools for coordinating disruptive actions that could drive significant political change.
The deputy head of the ministry stressed that technology can be countered through strategic technological responses. He noted that Belarussian law enforcement agencies are actively adopting proven foreign practices while also developing their own protective and countermeasures. These efforts span from information countermeasures to monitoring and regulating social networks and popular messaging apps, with the aim of safeguarding public order while preserving legitimate communication.
Beyond Belarus, observers recall wider debates about the role of smartphones and social media in public life. Earlier discussions in the United Kingdom focused on restricting screen time for younger users and limiting access to certain online experiences. Similar conversations have taken place in various regions about balancing digital freedoms with safety and security, especially as AI driven tools become more capable and accessible to a broader audience.
In related regional discussions, policymakers have examined how online platforms interact with civil society movements, the responsibilities of tech companies, and the ethical implications of automated content. The evolving landscape underscores the need for transparent governance of digital tools, clear rules for algorithmic influence, and robust mechanisms to shield individuals from manipulated or deceptive online representations while preserving legitimate political discourse.