Geography: Belarus shares borders with several countries, including Russia to the east and northeast, Ukraine to the south, Poland to the west, Lithuania to the northwest, and Latvia to the north. The capital and largest city of Belarus is Minsk.
History: Belarus has a complex history, marked by various rulers and empires, including the Grand Duchy of Lithuania, the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth, the Russian Empire, and the Soviet Union. It gained independence from the Soviet Union in 1991.
Economy: Belarus has a mixed economy with a strong state sector. It remains closely tied to Russia economically and politically. The country has industries such as manufacturing, agriculture, and services. Agriculture, particularly dairy and agricultural machinery, is significant.
Political System: Belarus is often referred to as Europe's last dictatorship due to its autocratic political system. Alexander Lukashenko has been the country's president since 1994, and his rule has been marked by concerns over human rights and lack of political freedoms.
Human Rights and Civil Liberties: Belarus has faced criticism for its human rights record, including restrictions on freedom of speech, the media, and political opposition. Elections in the country have often been criticized for lacking fairness and transparency.
Language and Culture: Belarusian (Belarusian Russian) and Russian are the official languages. The country has a rich cultural heritage, with a history of literature, art, and music. Folk traditions, including traditional costumes and dances, are also important.
Religion: The predominant religion in Belarus is Eastern Orthodoxy, and the country has a significant religious history and heritage. There is also a presence of other Christian denominations and a minority of other faiths.
Chernobyl: Belarus was significantly affected by the Chernobyl nuclear disaster in 1986, which occurred in neighboring Ukraine. A large portion of Belarus was contaminated by radioactive fallout, and the effects of the disaster continue to impact the country.
Tourism: Belarus has been working to promote its tourism industry, showcasing its natural beauty, historical sites, and cultural attractions. Notable sites include historic castles, national parks, and traditional villages.
Education and Healthcare: Belarus has a well-developed education system with a high literacy rate. Healthcare is provided by the state and is generally accessible to the population.
Currency: The currency used in Belarus is the Belarusian ruble (BYN).
