Since the start of this year, 377,935 citizens from Lithuania, Poland, and Latvia have travelled to Belarus using the visa-waiver program, with Lithuania being the most represented. Since the program’s introduction, about 762,921 people from Belarus’ neighbouring countries have visited the country. Belarus implemented visa-free entry for Lithuania and Latvia on April 15, 2022, and for Polish citizens from July 1, 2022. Citizens of Lithuania and Latvia can enter Belarus through border crossing points on the Belarusian-Polish border.

Those benefiting from the visa-waiver program can enter Belarus without visas for unlimited times until December 31, 2023, but the number of days in Belarus should not exceed 90 days in a calendar year, yet those wishing to transit through Belarus to third countries must hold a visa. In June, the State Border Committee of Belarus reported that Belarus welcomed nearly 600,000 travellers from its neighbouring EU states since introducing the program.

Lukashenko’s crackdown on the pro-democracy movement in Belarus from 2020 and onward has had profound implications for easy travel and economic relationships between Belarus and neighboring EU member states. The severe human rights violations, including arrests of opposition figures and suppression of dissent, have strained diplomatic ties and led to sanctions imposed by the EU.

The crackdown has resulted in a deterioration of travel conditions. Belarus has faced travel restrictions and border controls from neighboring EU states, affecting not only individuals associated with the regime but also ordinary citizens. The EU has taken measures to limit Lukashenko’s government’s access to various European programs and initiatives, impacting the ease of movement between Belarus and EU member states.

Economic relationships in the region have been significantly hampered. The EU, as a response to the crackdown, imposed sanctions targeting specific sectors of the Belarusian economy. This includes restrictions on financial transactions, arms sales, and access to technology. The sanctions have disrupted economic ties, impacting trade and investment between Belarus and EU member states.

Furthermore, the deteriorating political climate has created an atmosphere of uncertainty for businesses operating in Belarus. Investors and companies, wary of the political instability and human rights concerns, may hesitate to engage in economic activities in the country. The sanctions and strained diplomatic relations have led to a challenging business environment, hindering economic cooperation.

The situation has also prompted the EU to seek alternative routes for trade and transit, avoiding Belarusian territory where possible. This redirection of trade flows affects the traditional economic relationships in the region, compelling neighboring countries to reassess their economic strategies and diversify trade routes.

The imposition of sanctions, travel restrictions, and a challenging business environment have disrupted the once relatively stable economic ties, creating uncertainties for both Belarus and its regional partners. The impact extends beyond political considerations, affecting the economic interconnectedness of the region.