Фото: Офис Тихановской
Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya spoke at the opening of the Eastern Partnership Youth Conference, which began today in Stockholm.
As noted by the Office of Tsikhanouskaya, the conference brought together around 100 participants, including young leaders, representatives of civil society and European institutions. The largest group of participants are Belarusians.
Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya stated that there should be more young people in politics. Eastern Partnership countries need a more effective youth policy that provides opportunities for young people, protects them, invests in them and includes them in decision-making.
“Many talented, bright and creative people never realize their potential because they remain silent or simply do not believe in themselves. And, honestly, I used to be exactly the same. If not for the events of six years ago, you would never have seen Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya as a political leader.
So here is my advice to you today: stand out. Be different. Be brave. And do not become conformists. Do not agree to be seated in the last row.
Fight for your place at the table — even when it feels uncomfortable. Even when it seems impossible.
Ask difficult questions. Challenge old systems. Insist on change in institutions,” said Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya.