Belarus, officially known as the Republic of Belarus, is a landlocked country located in Eastern Europe. With Minsk as its capital and largest city, Belarus shares its borders with five neighboring countries – Russia to the east and northeast, Ukraine to the south, Poland to the west, Lithuania to the northwest, and Latvia to the north.
Stretching across an area of around 207,600 square kilometers, Belarus possesses a diverse landscape consisting of vast forests, marshlands, and numerous lakes, with notable bodies of water including Lake Naroch and Lake Belarus. Its prime geographical location facilitates cultural, historical, and economic connections with its surrounding nations.
Belarus has a population of approximately 9.4 million people, primarily comprising ethnic Belarusians, along with significant Ukrainian, Polish, and Russian minorities. The country has a parliamentary republic form of government, with the President as the head of state.
Throughout its history, Belarus has been subject to various foreign influences and occupations due to its strategic location. From the Mongols to the Polish–Lithuanian Commonwealth, the Russian Empire, and the Soviet Union, Belarus has experienced significant political and cultural shifts over the centuries.
Economically, Belarus relies heavily on its industrial sector, particularly in electronics, machinery, chemicals, and textiles. The country has a well-developed education system, with a high literacy rate and numerous universities.
Belarus has an intriguing cultural heritage, renowned for its rich folklore traditions, music, and arts. Folk dances, embroidery, and pottery are among the notable aspects of its cultural identity. Additionally, sports such as ice hockey and football hold significant popularity among Belarusians.
Belarus faces ongoing challenges related to political governance and human rights, with international attention focused on these issues in recent years.
