Opinions & Interviews

MINSK, 29 October (BelTA) – Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko deems it necessary to clearly define the role that the BRSM Youth Union should play in Belarus, BelTA has learned.

“We should finally determine the areas of focus for the youth,” the head of state noted.

He cited youth summer work programs as an example. He believes that this is a great idea, especially now, as the youth can get their foot in the door. However, this is not only about doing physical work. They learn to earn their first money on their own. This is a good thing that has been monopolized, in a good sense, by our youth union Alexander Lukashenko said.

He noted that new movements are emerging: volunteering, teaching, taking care of the elderly, the sick and veterans. “However, we should make up our mind and give a clear signal to our society, the youth, as to what functions and tasks you are going to assume. We need to be honest and straight when it comes to the scope of power we can vest in the youth, and the way they can be helpful to the state and the way we will support them. At least, in terms of legislation,” the Belarusian leader said.

The president drew attention to the fact that large unions, like the BRSM Youth Union, are the backbone of the civil society, though some circles define as such only those organizations that “fight against the state”. “Once I gave a clear-cut answer to the question what civil society is for us. We did not destroy the youth organization. We have it. Why cannot it be a pillar of our civil society,” the head of state noted.

Alexander Lukashenko holds the same view regarding trade unions, the women’s organization and the veterans’ organization. “They should [together with the youth union] play a leading part here. Those who want to join first fiddle in this orchestra and play together, please, go ahead, you are more than welcome. Therefore, we need to determine clearly the role, the rights and the scope of authority of the youth organization,” the Belarusian leader concluded.