Absurdities and Curiosities from Belarus
Discover the absurd and fascinating realities of Belarus — where censorship, strange laws, and daily life stories mix into a surreal portrait of the country.
Alexander Lukashenko introduced the title “President for Life” in 2004.
This means that there is formally no limit to the number of presidential terms. In practice, it ensures Lukashenko’s constant control over power.
The KGB still exists today – it is the only post-Soviet country that has retained this name.
The Security Service still operates under its original name from the USSR era. Its methods remain as ruthless as they once were.
At the border, they check if you have foreign newspapers – they may be confiscated.
The authorities fear the influence of external media. Even private possession of such newspapers may be considered illegal.
In Minsk, there are museums… of potatoes and tractors.
Unusual museum themes are part of the local culture. Both highlight the importance of agriculture in the country’s history.
The state sponsors competitions for the best dairy of the year.
Agriculture is an important sector of the economy. Competitions are aimed at promoting quality and efficiency in milk production.
The militia can arrest you for “behavior suggesting a protest”
There is no need to participate in demonstrations. Authorities prosecute even the slightest signs of disobedience.
Lukashenko once ordered the removal of air conditioning from offices because it “accustoms people to luxury.”
The decision was meant to symbolize the modesty of power. In reality, it triggered the absurdities of office life.
In 2020, protesters were arrested for “clapping their hands”.
The authorities have deemed applause as a form of illegal protest. Such repressions are the norm in the country.
The government controls prices… even for flowers on Women’s Day
In Belarus, price regulations apply even to minor products. All in the name of “economic stability.”
State television claimed that the coronavirus was “Western hysteria”.
The authorities downplayed the pandemic, promoting alternative theories. This influenced society’s approach to public health.
You can go to prison for “insulting the president” in a private conversation
In Belarus, even words spoken in private circles can be prosecuted. This is an example of totalitarian control.
Despite its proximity to Russia, Belarusian vodka is more expensive than Russian vodka.
Alcohol prices are strictly regulated. Higher production costs affect the final price.
The national bank has twice reset inflation by printing new banknotes.
Hyperinflation was so severe that several zeros had to be removed from the currency. However, this did not solve the economic problem.
Schools teach that Belarus invented the tractor.
Educational propaganda emphasizes the uniqueness of the country. The tractor is a symbol of industrial success.
In 2017, a “unemployment tax” was introduced – it was paid by people without jobs.
The controversial regulation was meant to force people to work. In reality, it hit the poorest the hardest.
In prison, you can end up for posting overly lengthy content on social media.
Authorities monitor online activity. Any content may be deemed illegal.
This is the only country in Europe where the death penalty is still in effect.
Executions are carried out in secrecy. This is a topic that sparks controversy among human rights organizations.
State journalists openly refer to the EU as a “fascist organization.”
Anti-Western rhetoric is a key element of propaganda. It serves to create the image of an external enemy.
Official reports claim that Belarus has no issues with corruption.
In reality, corruption is widespread. Reports are part of the propaganda aimed at distorting reality.
Some villages have curfews after dark
Strict regulations limit the freedom of residents. This is an example of a police state in practice.
There is an official “National Unity Day” – but it is unclear what it commemorates
The holiday is more of a propaganda tool than a genuine day of remembrance. The authorities do not explain its significance.
The internet is often turned off during elections.
This is a way to limit the coordination of protests. Internet censorship is widespread.
The militia was prohibited from speaking Belarusian – only Russian was allowed.
The Belarusian language is marginalized. Russian dominates in administration and public life.
In presidential elections, Lukashenko officially always secures over 80%.
The election results are widely believed to be fraudulent. Nevertheless, the authorities maintain their narrative.
In schools, they teach that Belarus is “the heart of Europe and the only truly free country.”
Textbooks promote patriotic but unrealistic content. This is part of a larger propaganda strategy.
Do you walk suspiciously?
The authorities accused the protesters of a “suspicious gait” as evidence of subversive activity.
Protest? Not even in silence allowed!
In 2011, people were arrested for “silent protests,” which simply involved standing still.
Ecology? The forest will clean itself!
Officially, the authorities claim that there are no environmental issues in Belarus.
Assemblies? Only pro-government!
The state prohibits gatherings of more than 5 people, except for demonstrations in support of Lukashenko.
Live Police Officers Instead of Traffic Lights
Traffic controllers are still operating at some intersections in Minsk.
Tourist, fuel up here!
Foreign visitors can purchase gasoline only at designated stations.
A hairdresser must love power
Even hairdressers have to prove their loyalty to the president!
Weather? Always perfect!
Official forecasts in state media only report good weather.
History reinvented
Teachers are not allowed to teach the true history of Belarus – only the government-approved version.
Ban on white socks
Sometimes the militia doesn’t allow them to be worn because they are “opposition colors.”
Clowns: A Threat to the State?
Lukashenko banned them from television to “avoid ridiculing the authorities.”
Was Belarus liberated by the USSR?
This is what the official version of history in state textbooks claims.
Building a house? Only for “good citizens”
To obtain permission, one must demonstrate loyalty to the state.
Flag? Not the right one!
The white-red-white historical flag is banned as “extremist”.
Corruption? It doesn’t exist!
The authorities claim that these are just “minor clerical errors.”
Internet Cleaners
Officials are dealing with the removal of “negative” content online.
The best roads in Europe?
That’s what Belarusian television claims, though drivers have a different opinion.
Civic happiness in law!
Belarusian regulations require the state to “ensure the happiness of its citizens.”
Laughter can be illegal
If you laugh in a group, the police may consider it an “illegal gathering”.
History Under Censorship
Historical books are edited to fit the government’s narrative.
VPN? Blokada!
The internet is strictly monitored, and VPNs are banned.
Belarus has never had debts?
The official version of the government states that the country has never been in debt.
Does the West envy Belarus’ prosperity?
According to propaganda, other countries dislike Belarus because they “envy its success.”
Prison? With mandatory propaganda!
Even inmates are forced to watch pro-government news every day.
