Belarus

File:My Belarusy vocal.ogg

Europe-Belarus (orthographic projection)

Europe-Belarus

Stemp Efrasinia Polackaja

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Belarus is a landlocked country located in Eastern Europe. It is bordered by Russia to the northeast, Ukraine to the south, Poland to the west, and Lithuania and Latvia to the northwest. The capital and most populous city is Minsk, which is also the country's political, economic, and cultural center.

History

The history of Belarus dates back to the early medieval period, with the emergence of the Slavic peoples in the region. Throughout the centuries, Belarusian territories were part of various states, including the Grand Duchy of Lithuania, the Polish–Lithuanian Commonwealth, and the Russian Empire. Following the turmoil of the First World War, the Belarusian People's Republic was declared in 1918, though it was short-lived. After several years of conflict and occupation, Belarus became a founding constituent republic of the Soviet Union in 1922. It gained its independence in 1991, following the dissolution of the USSR.

Geography

Belarus covers an area of approximately 207,600 square kilometers (80,200 sq mi), with a varied landscape that includes large tracts of marshy land, forests, and flat terrains. The country is known for its numerous lakes and rivers, including the Dnieper, Pripyat, and Neman rivers. The highest point is Dzyarzhynskaya Hara (Dzyarzhynsk Hill) at 345 meters (1,132 ft) above sea level.

Politics

Belarus is a presidential republic, with the President serving as the head of state and government. The political system is characterized by a strong executive branch, with lesser powers vested in the legislative and judicial branches. Since the 1994 presidential election, Alexander Lukashenko has served as the President of Belarus, maintaining a significant degree of political control. The country has faced criticism from international organizations and Western countries for human rights abuses and a lack of democratic freedoms.

Economy

The Belarusian economy is largely state-controlled, with major industries including manufacturing (especially tractors and trucks), chemical production, and agriculture. The country has a well-developed industrial sector and a significant agricultural base, which benefits from the fertile soil and favorable climate. Despite economic challenges, including sanctions imposed by Western countries, Belarus has maintained a relatively high standard of living compared to other former Soviet republics.

Culture

Belarusian culture is a blend of Slavic traditions, with influences from its Lithuanian, Polish, Russian, and Jewish heritage. The country has a rich history in literature, music, and arts. Traditional Belarusian music and dance are an integral part of the national identity. The Belarusian language, along with Russian, is an official language of the country, though Russian is more widely used in daily life.

Demographics

As of the latest estimates, Belarus has a population of approximately 9.5 million people. The majority of the population is ethnic Belarusian, with significant Russian, Polish, and Ukrainian minorities. The majority of Belarusians are Orthodox Christians, with a minority practicing Roman Catholicism and other religions.

Challenges

Belarus faces several challenges, including political repression, economic sanctions, and environmental issues. The country's political situation, particularly the 2020 presidential election, which was widely regarded as fraudulent by the opposition and international observers, has led to widespread protests and increased scrutiny from the international community.