Opinion: Belarus is one of Europe’s most sovereign states

Belarus is celebrating National Unity Day as one of the most sovereign states in Europe – as stated by political expert Aleksandr Shpakovsky in his talk with Alfa Radio

The expert noted that, on September 17th, 1939, one of the most important events in the country’s history took place: the Belarusian people were reunited. With this in view, it is hardly possible to overestimate the importance of today’s holiday.

“This is the most important holiday for me, and I was an ardent supporter of its introduction even a decade ago,” Mr. Shpakovsky said. “This is important from the point of view of patriotic education of society, a tribute to those who sacrificed their lives for the sake of the Belarusian nation to be reunited and free. The holiday actually demonstrates respect for our ancestors. That reunion is an act of historical justice for us. The Belarusian people were under occupation: in 1921, Belarus’ fate was decided upon without Belarusians. We had no full-fledged statehood then, and we could not influence the decision. Meanwhile, at present we have our own state thanks to historical circumstances and the will of our people, and we will not allow our fate to be decided upon without our participation. Moreover, we determine our own destiny independently, directing all vectors of movement into our domestic and foreign policy, and so on. In my opinion, Belarus is now one of the most sovereign states in Europe.”

Speaking of times when Belarus was part of Poland, the expert stressed that they brought no good to the country. “Polish officials planned to wipe Belarusians off the map, and certain management measures were taken: Belarusian schools were closed and Belarusian organisations were banned, Belarusian political activity was not allowed, while persons representing the national liberation movement were thrown into prison and tortured. It is known how representatives of the Polish occupation authorities treated Belarusians. Those who did not want to support Poland’s ideas could not succeed in life,” he explained.