The debate over Belarusian participation in the Berlin Russian-language book fair “Bebelplatz” has taken a new turn. Following sharp remarks by writer Kolya Sulima about colonial traditions, author of the book “Carry With You,” journalist and former media manager Nasta Rahatko responded, urging Belarusians not to “hide in a corner” but to occupy international space.
The presentation of Rahatko’s book “Carry With You” is set to take place at the Berlin Russian-language book fair — the very event that sparked the controversy over Belarusian authors’ participation.
The writer responded to the criticism by arguing that Belarusian society spends too much time reflecting on a neighbouring country instead of building its own presence.
“The problem is that while you are fighting against someone else’s influence rather than increasing your own, you remain in that someone’s shadow… To move to a qualitatively new level, you need to stop living in constant fear that Russia will consume you,” she said.
Rahatko’s main message is a lack of subjectivity. She believes Belarus remains a “silent” region for the world, spoken about either in the context of the war in Ukraine or in relation to Russia or China. Drawing on her extensive experience in media and political PR, she argues that Belarusian voices must be heard everywhere.
“Until you tell your own story, someone else will do it for you. And you won’t like that story. In my view, Belarusians should shout about themselves, be present at all festivals, exhibitions, conferences — anywhere at all,” she said.
For Rahatko, decolonisation does not mean ignoring Russian-language platforms but being physically present on them with one’s own narratives. She noted that although her book currently exists in Russian, a Belarusian version and translations into other foreign languages are already being prepared.
“Decolonisation is not about hiding in a corner and twitching every time someone says Minsk is clean. Decolonisation means showing up, taking your place and teaching others that you are not going anywhere,” she concluded.
Criticism of Belarusian participants in the Russian-language book fair “Bebelplatz,” which opens in May, began with a sharp post by writer Kolya Sulima. He described the Berlin fair as a “dump” and a “Russian festival,” where Belarusian authors are forced to share space with figures of the Russian liberal émigré community. Sulima argues that the “free Russian culture” in exile remains colonial toward Belarusians and Ukrainians.
Subscribe to Reform.news cultural updates on Telegram