"Poland’s example demonstrates that a round table can be an effective mechanism for transferring power. However, certain conditions must be met to implement such a scenario, and these conditions are shaped not only by the opposition but also by the regime itself. It is important for the regime to independently realize the benefits of a round table and be ready for negotiations", — said Dr. Jan Malicki, Director of the Centre for East European Studies at the University of Warsaw, former opposition activist during communist-era Poland, and organizer of underground publishing, during the event “Paths to Resolving the Political Crisis in Belarus Using the Example of Poland's Round Table "Paths to Resolving the Political Crisis in Belarus Using the Example of Poland's Round Table".
The event, held on November 26, was organized by the Representative Office for the Transition of Power of the United Transitional Cabinet, the National Anti-Crisis Management, and the Juliusz Mieroszewski Dialogue Center. Dr. Jan Malicki delivered a keynote address.
Drawing on his practical experience, Dr. Malicki outlined the conditions necessary for holding a round table in Belarus:
Motivation of the regime: Poland’s experience showed that the communist regime agreed to negotiations only when it recognized the inevitability of change.
Presence of a mediator: Successful negotiations require an independent mediator trusted by both sides. In Poland, this role was played by the Catholic Church. However, as Dr. Malicki noted, Belarus currently lacks a figure or institution respected by both the regime and democratic forces.
Readiness of both sides to compromise: Dr. Malicki emphasized that, as shown by Poland’s experience, the ideal outcome of negotiations is a situation where neither side is fully satisfied with the results.
"It is important to ensure a sense of minimal justice for society", — Dr. Malicki noted. He stressed the need for basic mechanisms of justice for those responsible for repressions while avoiding extremes, such as mass purges or reprisals, as these could undermine public trust in the next stage of the country’s development.
During the event, Dr. Malicki highlighted the importance of guaranteeing personal safety for regime representatives involved in such processes. In Belarus, it is also essential to ensure the security of negotiation participants to reduce their fear of future reprisals and provide them with an incentive to voluntarily engage in the process of power transition.
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