Culture does not just reflect change — it creates it.
When addressing global issues of democracy, security and economic resilience, culture is often sidelined or ignored entirely. Yet culture shapes the worldview of individuals and nations, influences political decisions, sets norms and forms the foundation for self-organization.
Belarus today is at a crossroads.
If culture is neglected, the country will soon fall under the complete influence of the “Russian World”, and outside its borders, Belarusians will lose their unique identity. All the extraordinary efforts to build a free and stable Belarus will be in vain.
1. Culture as a foundation for democracy
For Belarusians, culture is a key tool for preserving democratic aspirations. Through independent media, theatre, literature and music, people defend their rights — even when other forms of civil activism are impossible. Critical thinking, dialogue, analysis and independent decision-making are all vital for building a conscious civic society.
2. Culture as a factor of security and stability
Cultural policy serves as a shield against propaganda and manipulation. The stronger a nation’s cultural landscape, the harder it is to impose authoritarian worldviews. Belarusian creators at home and in exile build bridges between the Belarusian people and the international community.
Ignoring culture means missing key risks in the destabilization of Belarus and not finding effective tools to support its independence.
3. Culture as an economic driver
Culture is not only about meaning — it’s also about jobs, innovation and growth. The creative industries fuel economic development, expand entrepreneurial opportunities and offer long-term prospects. According to UNESCO, they make up nearly 3% of global GDP and are among the fastest-growing sectors.
Cultural business — publishing, music, design, film and IT rooted in cultural content — can also be a vital income source for Belarusians in exile.
What can be done?
Include a cultural agenda in international forums and conferences
Recognize culture as a political factor. We call on political forums and conference organizers to treat culture not as a “side topic” but as a universal tool for political transformation.
- Include cultural voices in panel discussions. Belarusian artists must speak alongside politicians, economists and human rights defenders. The Belarusian Council for Culture is ready to recommend relevant speakers.
- Place culture in the centre of the agenda. Cultural panels should be integrated into the core of forums — not placed at the end, when they are often neglected by politicians. The Strategic Consultations in London (March 21) set a great example with a mid-programme cultural panel.
- Use cross-sectoral themes. Belarusian cultural figures can provide unique perspectives on global issues such as “Culture as a tool for civic mobilization” or “Creative approaches to democracy-building”. Culture can be discussed in tandem with education, media and even sports.
Other formats for participating in conferences
- TED-style opening talks. Emotional 7–10 minute keynotes by cultural figures to set the tone.
- Interactive cultural cases. Short film screenings, performances, exhibits or musical interludes.
- Participatory experiences. Involve the audience in artistic expressions that reveal the absurdity of repression in Belarus.
- Flashmobs. Shared symbolic acts to highlight the humanitarian crisis inside and outside Belarus.
- Political prisoners “godparents” testimonies. Give a platform to politicians who have taken on public “godparent” roles for political prisoners, to speak on their behalf.
We are ready to collaborate
The Belarusian Council for Culture is ready to help connect organizers with speakers from the cultural sector. If our goals align, please reach out via [contact form].
Culture is not an add-on to change — it is the engine of it.
Institutions that supported these proposals:
- Belarusian Council for Culture
- Public association “Hodna”
- International Consortium “EuroBelarus”
- Gutenberg Publishing House
- Free Belarus Museum
- The Institute of the Belarusian Book
- “Tutaka” Foundation
- Public organization “Budzma Belarusians”
