Belarus’ Deputy Labour and Social Protection Minister: society without children is society without future

Belarus’ Deputy Minister of Labour and Social Protection Valery Kovalkov and emphasised the importance of preserving family values in contrast to Western trends and spoke about measures to support large families in Belarus during today’s round table discussion dedicated to the 25th anniversary of the Union State

“Today we have a remarkable round table. We are celebrating the 25th anniversary of the Union State,” Mr. Kovalkov noted.

He noted that preserving family values is one of the most important tasks for Belarus and Russia.

“We see Western traditions where the worldview is completely different. The childfree movement is developing there — a society free of children. But such a society has no future. For any conscious person, the continuation of the family is the basis of existence. Without children the future is impossible,” the Deputy Minister stressed.

Mr. Kovalkov attributes a special role in solving these problems to the Belarusian Orthodox Church and public organisations that help raise topical issues facing the state.

Speaking about the situation in Belarus, the Deputy Minister noted that large families receive comprehensive support.

“Our state provides comprehensive assistance to children and families, especially large families. This includes financial support and improvement of living conditions. Moreover, labour legislation provides additional benefits and days off for parents with many children,” the official underlined.

According to Mr. Kovalkov, preserving traditional values and strengthening the institution of the family are the key to the future for both countries of the Union State.