On November 4 and 5, 2024, the conference “Democracy in Exile: Empowering Local Democracy and Civil Society for Belarus” was held in Gdansk, Poland.
The event convened Belarusian civil society organisations and activists, both inside the country and abroad in exile, who continue to face immense challenges amidst ongoing political repression and instability in the Eastern Partnership (EaP) region. Despite the risks of persecution, restrictions on freedom, and constant surveillance, these organisations continue to work relentlessly to maintain their activities and continue advocating for justice and freedom.
In his opening remarks, Irakli Jgharkava, Southern Caucasus and Central Asia Coordinator, focused on the importance of building democratic resilience within the EaP, especially in fragile and challenging contexts. He highlighted the need to support Belarusian civil society by addressing their specific needs, fostering partnerships with experienced democracy advocates, and developing effective strategies to sustain democratic efforts both in exile and locally. Additionally, he underscored the critical role of diaspora communities in fostering local democratic participation, connecting this to ALDA’s migration initiatives. The speech concluded with a moment of silence in remembrance of war victims, emphasising the urgency of collective action to promote peace and democracy.
Antonella Valmorbida, ALDA Secretary General, followed with heartfelt acknowledgments, expressing gratitude to the city of Gdansk and its partners for their commitment to democratic resilience in the EaP region. She highlighted ALDA’s long-standing support for Belarus and the EaP, formalised through a Memorandum of Understanding with the Committee of the Regions, and underscored democracy’s role as a cornerstone of social well-being. Drawing from ALDA’s extensive work across themes such as migration, digitalisation, and gender equality, she referenced impactful initiatives, including those in Mariupol (Ukraine), to illustrate the organisation’s ongoing commitment. Mrs. Valmorbida stressed the importance of connecting participants with ALDA’s efforts to strengthen local democracy, fostering collaboration with Belarusian partners while learning from the experiences of Georgia and Ukraine. She concluded by introducing ALDA’s migration flagship initiative, inviting participants to explore its impact further throughout the day.
The city of Gdansk, represented by its Mayor Aleksandra Dulkiewicz, welcomed participants, emphasising its symbolic role as a hub of solidarity and freedom and highlighting its long-standing partnership with ALDA.
Addressing the Belarusian context, the Mayor acknowledged the challenges faced by the country, drawing parallels to Moldova and Georgia while reflecting on Poland’s own democratic struggles. Mrs. Dulkiewicz stressed the critical role of local CSOs, NGOs, and grassroots initiatives in driving democratic change, citing Poland’s progress as an example of their impact.
Recalling Poland’s history with martial law and the Solidarity movement, she highlighted the power of persistence and readiness for change, even when the timeline is uncertain.
Held in Gdansk, a city symbolising solidarity, the conference reaffirmed the enduring fight for democracy and justice in the region
The opening speeches were followed by a panel discussion exploring the role of diasporas in advancing efforts to restore democracy in Belarus. This was complemented by a workshop, initiated by ALDA, on the potential establishment of a Local Democracy Agency for Belarus in Exile.
The first day concluded with a presentation on ALDA’s Migration Flagship initiative, delivered by Andrea Rilievo, member of ALDA’s Governing Board, and Mohammed Moustafa, Coordinator of the Migration Hub.
The second day of the event featured two insightful panels: “Updating the State of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) in Belarus and in Exile” and “Collaboration and Knowledge Sharing Between Belarusian and Georgian CSOs.”The day concluded with a powerful screening of a documentary on the 1993 conflict in Abkhazia, Georgia—a poignant historical parallel to the current situation unfolding in Ukraine.
The “Democracy in Exile: Empowering Local Democracy and Civil Society for Belarus” conference showcased the resilience and determination of Belarusian civil society in the face of immense challenges. Over two days, panels, workshops, and a moving documentary screening highlighted the critical role of solidarity and collaboration in sustaining democratic efforts, both in exile and within Belarus.
The event closed with a powerful message of hope and determination. Despite the obstacles, the commitment of Belarusian CSOs, diaspora communities, and international allies like ALDA continues to inspire progress. Held in Gdansk, a city symbolising solidarity, the conference reaffirmed the enduring fight for democracy and justice in the region.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to the German Marshall Fund and to the City of Gdansk for their generous support and dedication to this vital cause.