Belarus
In Belarus, the last dictatorship in Europe, no democratic reforms have taken place since president Lukasjenka took power in 1994. The situation with regards to democracy, human rights, freedom of speech, free press, political participation and gender equality is one of the worst in Europe. The democratic opposition is constantly facing threats, surveillance and harassments from the regime aimed at hindering their work. A general problem for the opposition is their limited possibilities to gather, disseminate information and hold public meetings.
In spite of the difficult and many times dangerous conditions, the political opposition continues to work actively in order to make their messages heard and offer the Belarusian population an alternative to the current regime. Since 2009 a broader cooperation between the Belarusian democratic opposition and the European parliament has been started within the frame of the Eastern Partnership.
About our partner
Belarusian Popular Front (BPF) was established 1988 and has around 3000 members. It is one of the oldest and largest democratic parties in Belarus, with an ideology based on Christian democracy and conservatism. The party’s main goal is to work for a free and democratic Belarus, a closer cooperation with Europe and a free civil society.
Our previous experience
During the last years KIC has supported projects aiming at
strengthening young people’s knowledge about democracy, leadership,
ideology, political communication, gender equality and the EU. Seminars
and work-shops have been conducted with both Belarusian and foreign
speakers.
Plans for 2009-2010
During 2009-2010, KIC will continue to support the democratic development in Belarus.