Belarus-EU Relations: Challenges and Opportunities

• In Event: Belarus II: Belarusian Politics after 2020: From Repressions to Liberation

Abstract

Belarus-European Union (EU) relations have had a complex history, marked by periods of tension and rapprochement. The EU has consistently called for democratic reforms in Belarus while imposing sanctions in response to violations and abuses of human rights and fundamental freedoms. Yet, after nearly three decades of engagement with the official Minsk, the EU has not succeeded in bringing democratic changes in Belarus.

This paper sets a three-fold goal. First, it aims to analyze different phases in Belarus-EU relations starting from the early 90s until the present time. Second, it will scrutinize the factors that have influenced the changes in the Belarus-EU relations cycle. Finally, it will discuss the drawbacks of the EU’s policy approach towards Belarus and analyze the variables that can affect the development of Belarus-EU relations in the future.

The paper will be grounded in the literature on democracy promotion and Europeanisation. From a methodological standpoint, this is a qualitative study that will rely on document analysis of EU primary documents (e.g., Council Conclusions, EaP documents, ENP progress reports, etc.) as well as secondary literature.

Author

• Victoria Leukavets, Stockholm Centre for Eastern European Studies (Sweden)