The Munich Security Conference is one of the world’s most important platforms for discussing key challenges in foreign policy and security. This year, the event is particularly significant, as discussions will focus on peace in Ukraine and the situation in the region.
Moreover, for the first time in four years, Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya will take the main stage of the conference. Her participation in two key discussions of the official program highlights one crucial principle – in international security debates, no decisions regarding Belarus can be made without Belarusians. In addition to the main sessions, there will be a dedicated side event on the situation in Belarus after the January 26 sham election.
Ahead of the conference, Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya’s Office explains why the participation of Belarus’ democratic forces in this forum is essential.
Representing Belarus on the international stage
Democratic nations, international organizations, institutions, and political leaders have rejected the sham election staged by Lukashenka. Ms. Tsikhanouskaya’s speech in Munich is not just about representation. It is a signal that the Belarusian issue remains central to European affairs.
Countering Russia’s silent takeover of Belarus
Russia is actively tightening its grip on Belarus, including through the deployment of troops and nuclear weapons on Belarusian soil. The Munich Conference provides a key platform for Belarus’ democratic forces to warn the international community against Belarus becoming a Russian military outpost.
Supporting political prisoners in Belarus
The conference is an opportunity to remind global leaders that repression in Belarus continues daily. Keeping Belarus’ human rights crisis in focus helps discuss all possible ways to secure the release of political prisoners.
Assisting Belarusians in exile
Over 600,000 Belarusians have fled the country in the past 4.5 years. The conference allows Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya to negotiate with world leaders on diaspora support, civic initiatives, and independent media, as well as to discuss simplified residence legalization procedures and assistance programs.
Shaping an alternative vision for Belarus and preparing for change
The regime tries to portray itself as the only force capable of governing Belarus. But there is an alternative – a democratic and independent future for the country.
When Belarus’ window of opportunity for change opens, the international community must be ready to support and assist in the transition.
