Belarus makes a meaningful contribution to tackling global problems through humanitarian aid, Sergei Rachkov, Chairman of the Standing Commission on International Affairs of the House of Representatives of the National Assembly of Belarus, said at the General Debate of the 151st Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union in Geneva.
Sergei Rachkov emphasized the particular relevance of the assembly’s topic, noting that as a founding UN member and a party to the 1949 Geneva Conventions and respective protocols, Belarus recognizes the special role of international humanitarian law in shaping the modern system of international peace and security.
He affirmed the country’s conscientious implementation of humanitarian norms, its active participation in the work of international Red Cross and Red Crescent conferences, and in disseminating knowledge of international humanitarian law.
He highlighted that Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko places a particular emphasis on these efforts.
To fulfill its obligations, a government commission has been established to integrate international humanitarian law into national legislation, and the Belarus Red Cross provides significant assistance to the state, especially in aiding victims of armed conflicts and emergencies.
Sergei Rachkov expressed hope for the speedy restoration of the Belarus Red Cross’ full status within the International Federation, which was suspended due to a “politicized decision”.
The parliamentarian reported that Belarus has built a highly effective system for providing humanitarian aid to affected countries, with a decision-making process defined by decree.
Since 1999, aid has been provided to 34 countries, ranging from rescue teams to delivered supplies and financial support. Belarusian specialists have proven themselves to be among the best-prepared for international missions, he stated.
“Belarus’ humanitarian aid activities are not simply a gesture of goodwill, but a manifestation of responsible participation in solving global problems. It demonstrates the country’s active role in the international arena and contributes to strengthening mutual understanding and building trust between states,” Sergei Rachkov said.
The day before, during a panel discussion on parliamentary oversight of defense spending, Sergei Rachkov had underscored that “Belarus invests in diplomacy, not in weapons”. He recalled the recent international conferences in Minsk where Belarus set in motion a comprehensive discussion on building a Eurasian security architecture.
He noted that the Belarusian president advocated for “a common space of trust and cooperation,” aiming to “avoid a fatal civilizational rift.” The practical result of the 2024 conference was the Common Vision of a Eurasian Charter of Diversity and Multipolarity in the 21st Century. Discussions on this charter will continue at the III Minsk International Conference on Eurasian Security on 28-29 October 2025.
