First congress of Belarusians in Czechia held in Prague

The first congress of Belarusians in Czechia got underway in Prague on Saturday morning. The gathering was expected to focus on the problems and challenges faced by Belarusians living in this country. Visa restrictions mean that relatives from their native state cannot visit, while many resident in Czechia would face persecution if they returned. Belarusian students also face restrictions.

One of the organisers of Saturday’s event said Belarusians were always lumped in with Russians while in fact their own state was occupied.

According to official figures, over 8,000 Belarusian citizens are living long term in this country.