ReliefWeb

This report covers the period 01/01/2012 to 30/06/2012

Overview

Belarus became independent in 1991, following the collapse of the Soviet Union. The country is bordered by the EU to the west and by the Russian Federation to the east. Both major political neighbours have an influence on the country. In the 2010s Belarus is still facing several challenges related to humanitarian issues, like the Chernobyl legacy, the growing incidence of trafficking in persons, TB and HIV, and a serious demographic crisis, marked by declining life expectancy, high mortality and morbidity, rapid population ageing and deteriorating health.

Hyperinflation has severily affected the economy and the society of the country. As a result, large part of the already small middle class has been pushed into poverty, while many workers and pensioners are struggling to survive. Those who have an opportunity, especially the young and qualified are leaving the country. The differences in wages are significant in the country, the average income is around USD 300-400 per month, but some people earn only around USD 50 per month and are therefore depending on aid or are doomed to a life in poverty.

This situation also influences the functioning of Belarus Red Cross as the National Society has to stretch its capacities in order to cover the growing needs of the vulnerable population groups. Belarus Red Cross is widely known and respected among the population and many do ask them for support in case of need. Based on the national legislation the National Society can not receive funds from the state and is also not entitled to conduct commercial activities to increase its income that would allow more sustainable programming. Therefore Belarus Red Cross depends very much on membership fees and on the support of other organizations. Under the given circumstances it seems unlikely that Belarus Red Cross will be able to sustain major programmes by itself. Making the most out of its branch and volunteer network, Belarus Red Cross delivers vital services to the most hard-to-reach vulnerable groups such as homeless people, injecting drug users, people living with HIV, female sex-workers, victims of trafficking and ex-offender.