Major conference on Belarus in Stockholm on 21–22 May

A large number of Belarusians have left Belarus due to repression in the country. In light of this, the Ministry for Foreign Affairs and the Stockholm Centre for Eastern European Studies have organised a conference on Belarus in Stockholm on 21–22 May. The conference will cover topics such as Belarus’s national identity in Europe today, its language and culture, human rights, democracy and the challenges facing Belarusians who are forced to live in exile.

International Day of Solidarity with Political Prisoners in Belarus is on 21 May. During the conference, Minister for International Development Cooperation and Foreign Trade Johan Forssell will announce Sweden’s intention to contribute SEK 5 million to the International Humanitarian Fund for Victims of Repression in Belarus, which supports political prisoners and their families.

Mr Forssell will deliver the opening address on the first day of the conference.

“Sweden’s Belarusian policy prioritises intensifying dialogue with the Belarusian democratic forces in exile under the leadership of Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya. The world must not forget those who fight for a free, democratic and independent Belarus, and Sweden’s support can make a difference,” says Mr Forssell.

In conjunction with the conference, a Belarusian cultural event that is open to the public will be held at Kulturhuset on 21 May. Minister for Culture Parisa Liljestrand will speak at the event.

“The importance of culture cannot be overstated. Now more than ever, we need spaces that extend beyond borders and promote dialogue and understanding. Sweden has long been committed to freedom of expression and diversity in cultural practice. We consider this fundamental to a democratic society,” says Ms Liljestrand.