National identity is the most important tool in resisting the “Russian World”, Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya said at the opening of the Kościuszko Forum in Gdańsk. This year’s forum is dedicated to the role of culture and identity during times of political crisis.
As the Office of Tsikhanouskaya reported, she thanked the European Solidarity Centre, the Polish authorities and international partners for their support of Belarusian culture, political prisoners and Belarusians living in exile.
“Why is support for Belarusian culture, cultural ties and national identity so important today?
First, culture serves as a bridge between Belarusians on both sides of the border. When hundreds of thousands have found themselves in exile, language, literature, music, theatre and shared memory help us preserve our connection with one another.
Second, national identity is the most important instrument of resistance to the Russian World. It is no coincidence that Russia is pursuing forced Russification both in Belarus and in the occupied territories of Ukraine.
Third, culture is also an element of security. A strong national identity makes society more resilient to propaganda and attempts at external control.
And finally, culture is what connects us with Europe. Historically, Belarus has been part of the European cultural space and the broader European heritage. By supporting culture, we strengthen the European identity of Belarusian society,” Tsikhanouskaya said.
