Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya delivered remarks at the closing session of the Next Generation Security Conference in the Netherlands. In her speech, the leader of the democratic forces drew a direct link between Europe’s security and the fate of Belarus.
“A dictatorship that destroys democracy at home becomes a security threat abroad. A regime that tortures its own citizens will not respect its neighbours. A regime dependent on the Kremlin will not be able to protect its own sovereignty. Today, Belarus is becoming not only a prison for Belarusians but also a threat to Ukraine, Poland, Lithuania and the entire region. Only a democratic, independent Belarus, part of the European family, can guarantee peace and stability in the region,” she said.
Tsikhanouskaya also focused on the nature of genuine security, which, she said, depends not only on armies and weapons but also on strong democratic institutions, education and civil society.
“Democratic resilience begins long before a crisis. It begins in schools and universities, where young people learn to think critically. In independent media, where facts protect against lies. In civil society, where people learn to organise and take responsibility. In local communities, where citizens see that their voices matter. Everything begins with the rule of law, accountable institutions, free elections and a simple belief that no one is above the law. Authoritarian regimes understand this very well. They spread disinformation so that people doubt everything. That is why your work, the work of young leaders, is so important,” she stressed.
The event brought together experts, young leaders and researchers to discuss the future of international security and democracy. Participants also included Dutch Prime Minister Rob Jetten, former Finnish President Sauli Niinistö, former NATO Secretary General Jaap de Hoop Scheffer and other international politicians and diplomats.
