Belarus

The idea for this publication is based on the conviction that among foreign organizations there is little reliable information concerning Belarus, and in particular information regarding social organizations in this country. This results in a lack of understanding by foreign and international organizations of the problems of Belarus, the failure of many programs and the discouragement of many foreign organizations which have worked in this country. Simultaneously, we want to encourage and facilitate various institutions to begin work in Belarus. We hope that the information contained in this publication will clarify many of the actual problems faced by the Belarusan third sector and help to better identify potential partners for co-operation. When Belarus regained independence in 1991, it began to build the structures of a democratic state. The deep economic and social crisis, however, contributed to forces coming to power intending to halt these processes. For four years an authoritarian system has been systematically established in Belarus, violating the principles of a democratic state and human rights. Society, which was originally passive in the face of these phenomena, has begun to take a stand against the destruction of democracy and the sovereignty of Belarus.