Source: racyja.com
"Simplifying the visa regime and improving border traffic for Belarusians" – this document is currently being developed by the third convocation of the Coordination Council in response to the ongoing issues at the Belarusian-Polish border. This situation highlights the complex political reality between Poland and Belarus under Alexander Lukashenko's rule. We discussed these aspects with our guest, Artsiom Brukhan, a member of the Coordination Council and Deputy Head of the National Anti-Crisis Management.
Radio Racyja (RR): Polish media outlets describe a critical situation at the border, prompting the Polish government to reinstate the buffer zone. How should we respond?
Artsiom Brukhan: It's crucial to recognize that the Lukashenko regime's actions are the root cause of this crisis. This point often gets lost in discussions about Poland's strong reaction. We must remember that this immigration crisis has been unfolding for some time, but the recent tragic death of a Polish soldier at the border sparked this escalation. Andrzej Duda's powerful statement in China, declaring this the first Polish soldier to die defending the border since World War II, underscores the gravity of the situation.
RR: Shouldn't Putin's role be acknowledged as well? Polish media reports indicate that many individuals attempting to cross the border hold Russian visas.
Artsiom Brukhan: Absolutely, I agree. However, as Belarusians, we must first address the Lukashenko regime's involvement, as this is happening on our country's border. It's clear that this hybrid aggression is orchestrated by the Kremlin, with Putin as the primary beneficiary. Ultimately, these dictators' actions have created this crisis. If the border closes, it's the Belarusian people who will suffer the most.
RR: Here in the Białystok region, we often encounter individuals uninvolved in politics, simply working here and hoping to return home to Belarus. They face significant difficulties crossing the border, enduring long waits or resorting to detours through Lithuania. What can you say to these individuals, especially when Hrodna is a mere 80 kilometers from Białystok?
Artsiom Brukhan: The most compelling argument is this: if you choose not to engage in politics, politics will eventually come for you. The consequences of political apathy are evident in the challenges faced by those struggling to cross the border. It's crucial to understand that sooner or later, politics will impact your life.
Had these individuals been politically engaged, expressed their views, and understood the situation, they might have a clearer perspective. They wouldn't simply lament the closed border or criticize Poland. This highlights the importance of education, particularly political education, and engaging with people to raise awareness.