During her working visit to Germany, Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya met with the Belarusian diaspora in Berlin, represented by Razam, the largest association of Belarusians living in Germany.
Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya spoke on:
The role of diasporas: “There remains virtually no space for civic activity within Belarus. We abroad should continue to keep Belarus on the agenda. I want to say that you have one of the most vibrant and active Belarusian communities”.
Continuing the fight and taking responsibility: “Dear friends, don’t be passive. Unite and take the initiative into your own hands. Don’t be afraid to knock on local politicians’ doors and advocate for your interests. When you talk in the media about our struggle, political prisoners, and problems in exile, it will prompt a reaction from politicians. If Belarus isn’t in the media, it isn’t in politics either”.
Migration issues: “We must not overlook the problems related to the legalization of stay and obtaining passports that Belarusians face. We want representatives of the Foreign Ministry, Interior Ministry, Justice Ministry, the Migration Service, and the diaspora to form a working group on Belarus. So that Belarusians won’t be required to provide apostilles on diplomas, certificates, and documents”.
Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya: “I always appreciate meetings with Belarusians, where we can embrace, look into each other’s eyes, share problems, and offer support. This helps me feel and understand what our people in exile are facing to address their issues at a higher level. And I am proud that you not only find the time to discuss problems, but you also do everything to solve them”.
