During the Munich Security Conference, Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya took part in the panel discussion “Never Waste a Quarter-Life Crisis: New Solutions in a Polarized Century”, which focused on how crises can become opportunities for rethinking and defending fundamental values.
In her speech, Ms. Tsikhanouskaya emphasized that Belarus is an integral part of Europe and needs support in its pursuit of democracy and freedom. She highlighted the values that unite European nations and stressed that these values should be defended rather than redefined, as democracy is the foundation of peaceful life.
“As a representative of the Belarusian people fighting for democracy, I call on you for support. Help Belarusians become citizens of a free, democratic, and European Belarus.
I want to live in a strong and determined Europe that does not compromise with dictators. In a Europe that stands on values, not just interests. In a united, not divided, Europe.
This is exactly how I envision my Belarus – a European country without political prisoners or tyranny, where people can live freely and strengthen democracy.
As President Zelenskyy said yesterday, Europe’s borders should extend to Belarus’ eastern borders. So do not exclude Belarus! Do not create a new Iron Curtain between Europe and our country. Help bring Belarus back into the true European family. Only then will both I and the Belarusian people be happy”.
