Opinions & Interviews

Taking into account the size of the country and the increasing inflow of migrants, I believe that Belarus deals with the matter effectively. Thousands of Ukrainians have recently moved to Belarus due to military and economic issues in Ukraine. You did well in receiving and accommodating them, Brunson McKinley said. In his words, Belarus deserves high praise in the matter. “Europe appreciates your efforts, appreciates your decision not to close the door for migrants from Ukraine. We hope that with your experience and traditions you will avoid the problems which Croatia, Hungary, Austria and other EU countries face today,” he added.

According to the expert, Belarus is also doing well in what concerns the integration of migrants. In his words, there are no universal solutions to mitigate the consequences of the migration crisis. It is important to control the border, check those who seek the entry to the country and turn back those who pose a threat to the country and the society. It is also necessary to create conditions for those whom the state welcomes so they could be able to integrate smoothly into the society, find jobs, and be respected. This is your recipe. This is what Belarus has already done and is doing for refugees and migrants, including for those from Ukraine, said the former IOM Director General.