Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya is in Slovenia, where she participated in a one-on-one discussion at the Bled Strategic Forum. She addressed topics ranging from the transition of power to Europe’s support for Belarus.
On Belarusians
“Belarusians are talented and hardworking people. Disciplined, capable, and freedom-loving. We have everything needed for Belarus to become a successful and prosperous country. And when the window of opportunity opens, we will surely make use of it”.
On the release of political prisoners
“I am grateful to the United States administration for the release of Siarhei. This is the result of joint efforts by the US and the EU. But it pains me that more than 1,300 people are still behind bars. That is why we are not stopping, and together with our partners in the US and Europe, we will continue to fight for the freedom of each one of them”.
On how Europe can support Belarus
“Europe has already done a great deal, and never before has Belarus been so high on the European agenda. The most important thing now is to treat Belarus as part of Europe. To maintain a principled policy, to seek the release of political prisoners and an end to repression. To support journalists, human rights defenders, and cultural initiatives. And to look to the future together – toward a European Belarus”.
On the transition of power
“Belarusian society wants change. And even within the system, there is increasing discussion about transition. Change is inevitable, but we must accelerate it. Russia wants to preserve the status quo, while Belarusians want to move toward Europe”.
On the democratic forces’ work
“We, the democratic forces, do not have our own state or territory. But we do have a society that wants change and a large diaspora of those who had to leave their homeland. We are looking for ways to help them with legal stay, documents, education, and Belarus on the international agenda. We are looking for ways to support those who continue the struggle inside the country. We are working to preserve and expand Belarus’ ties with Europe”.
