June 2, Pozirk. Poland has become the primary cultural hub for Belarusians, opposition leader Śviatłana Cichanoŭskaja, said during the opening ceremony for the Kościuszko Forum in Gdańsk, Poland, on June 2.
In her live-streamed video address at the forum, themed “Culture as a Driving Force of Democracy,” Cichanoŭskaja thanked the European Solidarity Centre in Gdańsk, which is hosting the event, the Polish Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the authorities of Gdańsk and the Pomeranian Voivodeship.
Cichanoŭskaja also expressed gratitude to the European Commission, which has financed Belarusian cultural initiatives abroad for several years, emphasizing the importance of the EU’s “unique ArtPower program.”
“It seems to me that a clear understanding has emerged within the European Union that culture is not something secondary, but a central element of security,” she said. “Thank you Sweden, the Netherlands, Ireland, Germany, as well as the Nordic and Baltic countries, which support cultural projects and initiatives.”
Cichanoŭskaja asked Polish authorities to simplify the visa process and expand opportunities for mobility, educational and cultural exchanges, residencies, and professional development for Belarusians. She warned against a scenario where it is easier for creative Belarusians to realize their potential in Russia than in Europe.
“Let us remember that no dictatorship lasts forever,” Cichanoŭskaja said. “All tyrannies crumble sooner or later, but people-to-people bonds endure forever. I trust that Ukraine will win. Belarusians will regain their freedom. Poland will feel safe once again. And culture will play a key role in this.”
The forum featured a ceremony to honor former Polish President Lech Wałęsa with the Cross of Good Neighborliness, the United Transitional Cabinet’s award for contributions to Belarus’ democratization and cooperation with other countries. The opposition cabinet’s deputy head, Pavieł Łatuška, presented the award to the Polish politician’s son, Bogdan Wałęsa.
In addition, the European Solidarity Centre’s Solidarity Prize was presented at the forum to Belarusian Nobel Peace Prize laureate Aleś Bialacki, head of the Viasna Human Rights Center.
