Belarus's Transformation: 30 Years After a Defining Referendum

Belarus: Thirty Years After the First Referendum MINSK, BELARUS – May 18, 2025 – Thirty years have passed since Belarus held its first referendum, a pivotal moment that shaped the nation's political and social landscape. This event significantly impacted the country's trajectory, leading to profound transformations in its economic and social structures. Experts offer insights into this period, examining the referendum's consequences and long-term effects. Anatoly Krasuskiy, a distinguished Belarusian jurist, reflects on the challenges of the time: "We could have lost our status as a sovereign state. The president had to make decisive decisions, decisions only possible with the support of the people." Denis Duk, rector of Mogilev State University, adds a broader perspective: "Today, referendums are an integral part of our lives. But back then, it was a civilizational choice for the Belarusian people, a continuation of that choice." The video showcases archival footage, illustrating the atmosphere surrounding the referendum and the subsequent changes in Belarus. The experts' analyses provide a balanced and informative account of this crucial period in Belarusian history, highlighting both the successes and challenges faced in the nation's development.