On October 27, Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya delivered opening remarks at the “Ireland–Belarus: National Cultural Identities” Conference in Dublin, organized by Ireland’s Department of Foreign Affairs in cooperation with the United Transitional Cabinet of Belarus and Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya’s Office as part of Ireland’s Presidency of the Council of the European Union.
The conference has brought together around 200 participants, including politicians, writers, linguists, and cultural figures from Belarus and Ireland. Discussions focus on the role of language in preserving national identity, the political dimensions of cultural independence, and the importance of theater in exploring the histories of both nations.
In her speech, Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya noted that Belarusians continue to preserve their identity despite Russification, censorship, and repression. She highlighted the cultural awakening of 2020 and the role of Belarusian cultural figures who continue their work both inside the country and in exile.
“Our national identity is not just about preserving the past. It is also about protecting our future. The so-called ‘Russian world’ is built on the idea that Belarus and Ukraine are simply extensions of Russia. But Belarus is not Russia.
Today, the regime in Belarus is pursuing a policy of Russification, just as Russia is doing in the occupied territories of Ukraine, seeking to turn us into Russians. First, you are told that your language does not matter. Then, that your history does not matter. And finally, that your country does not matter.
That is why supporting culture, protecting our languages, and strengthening national identity are so important today — for Ukrainians and Belarusians alike”.
