Minsk, November 23, 2024 – The Europe Today: Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko emphasized the critical importance of information sovereignty in ensuring the national security of the state during a Q&A session titled “Open Microphone with the President” at Minsk State Linguistic University. This event marked the third such meeting between Lukashenko and Belarusian students, following earlier visits to Vitebsk State University and Minsk State Linguistic University, which is the second institution to host the president.
Lukashenko expressed his satisfaction in visiting the university, highlighting the unique atmosphere of intercultural dialogue that the institution fosters. “This is how it should be in a university where a large number of foreigners study. We are proud of this fact,” he said, after speaking with the university’s rector and the Minister of Education.
The President, who himself holds a humanities degree, praised the students for their role in shaping the world of information. He pointed out the growing influence of information warfare, asserting, “Information rules the world today. While the threat of World War III looms in discussions, a real information war has been ongoing for some time, and it is more than a clash—it is a full-blown war.”
Lukashenko underscored that the students—future philologists, journalists, historians, and educators—will play an active role in this arena as they advance in their careers. “Your education opens doors to a wide variety of fields,” he noted, encouraging students to be mindful of their influence on shaping public discourse in the years to come.
The conversation also turned to the vital issue of information sovereignty. Lukashenko warned of the dangers posed by foreign propaganda, which seeks to undermine national identity and historical consciousness. “It is you that information propaganda targets primarily,” he cautioned. “Its purpose is to tear you away from your roots, to make you forget your history.” The President emphasized that understanding the essence of such information sabotage is crucial in safeguarding national security.
In addition to information sovereignty, Lukashenko opened the floor to discussions on geopolitics. He expressed a keen interest in hearing the students’ perspectives on global affairs and the future of Belarus. “It is important for me to understand how you see the future of Belarus in a changing world. After all, this is your future, which you will build tomorrow,” he said, encouraging students to voice their thoughts freely.
Lukashenko also invited students to share their suggestions on how to improve the educational process and their approach to working with young people. “Your opinion is very important to me,” he added. He called for an open and respectful discussion, urging students to express their views without stepping on each other’s toes.
As the session concluded, Lukashenko reminded the students that the country is currently undergoing significant changes and encouraged them to participate actively in shaping those changes. The President reassured that the upcoming presidential election, scheduled for 26 January, would offer an opportunity to define the future of Belarus, emphasizing the importance of a cultured, reasoned debate during this period of transition.
In a final note, Lukashenko appealed to the students to engage in the democratic process responsibly, ensuring their voices contribute positively to the national discourse.
