Petrishenko: Belarus must demonstrate to the world a civilised policy of strengthening family values

Belarus must demonstrate a civilised policy of preserving and strengthening traditional family values – as stated by Deputy PM Igor Petrishenko, speaking to participants of the international conference: Family at the Centre of the State’s Socio-Demographic Policy

“The topic of the conference is of particular relevance due to the urgency of the demographic problems facing us, as well as the transformations of traditional family values and foundations taking place in the world,” argued Igor Petrishenko. “The family – as the main element of society – has been and remains a key factor in the stability and development of any state, including ours. There is no doubt about its special role in preserving culture, human values and historical continuity of generations. This is the source that forms the genetic code of a nation. Unfortunately, due to the short horizon of foresight, and the largely irresponsible implementation of the so-called liberal policies of the West, we are witnessing the thoughtless destruction of the basic family principles of building and functioning of society. Time and history will certainly put everything in its place. But it is already obvious that the consequences of such processes can be extremely painful, including the loss of national identity and loss of sovereignty.”

The Deputy PM cited scientific research data. Over the past 50 years, the number of people in the world who are married has decreased from 72 to 52 percent, the number of divorced people has increased to 25, and in some countries to 50 percent. The number of people who have never married has increased from 14 to 27 percent. The share of women who gave birth to children while unmarried increased from 5 to 41 percent.

“If we add to these figures the legalisation of same-sex marriage, the fashion for childlessness, the so-called childfree movement, other deviations and social viruses, then the prospect of the development of these processes looks quite alarming,” commented Igor Petrishenko. “In this situation, it is extremely important for us to effectively resist the imposition of guidelines that are alien to us, but also to demonstrate a civilised alternative to the ongoing state family policy.”

Igor Petrishenko underlined that family occupies a leading place in the values of Belarusians, and this is confirmed by opinion polls, “The thesis – a strong family is a strong state – is traditionally one of the strategic foundations that consolidate our society. In Belarus, a multifaceted and comprehensive state system of family support is being implemented, the infrastructure of children’s and general education institutions is being developed, assistance is provided in resolving housing issues, and opportunities are expanding for combining work and family responsibilities of parents, cultural development and family recreation. A separate significant package is envisaged for families with many children. The state invests significant resources in all areas vital for the family. More than 3 percent of GDP is spent annually for these purposes.”