Monolithic state and a common outlook on patriotism are the key accomplishments of independent Belarus

Monolithic state and a common outlook on patriotism are the key accomplishments of independent Belarus. The opinion was voiced by Associate Professor Nikolai Shchekin, Candidate of Philosophy, Head of the Political and Economic Sociology Center at the Sociology Institute of the National Academy of Sciences of Belarus, BelTA has learned.

Opinion polls conducted by the Sociology Institute indicate that Belarusians consider Independence Day and the victory in the Great Patriotic War of 1941-1945 as fateful historical events. When asked whether ties between the most important state holidays of Belarus and Great Patriotic War events should be preserved, nine out of every ten polled Belarusians responded positively. As many as 68.2% of those polled mentioned the victory of the Soviet people in the Great Patriotic War among events of historical significance for the Belarusian nation. As many as 85.2% of young Belarusians noted that the victory is the most important event they will never forget. The poll indicates that 95% of the country's residents feel gratitude towards the war veterans, who saved the world from enslavement, and pride in the country that has defeated the Nazi.

“Independence Day is a special holiday for the Belarusian nation,” said Nikolai Shchekin. “It is not only a reminder about the road to freedom and independence that Belarusians have travelled together with other brotherly nations. It is also a guideline for future development. It helps worthily overcome challenges of the present day. A nation is a live link between people, families, generations, who are united by relationship and common foundations of historic development. National interests, greatness and dignity of every citizen are represented in the recognition of inseparable unity with the fate of their country, in solidarity and understanding of the need to work for the benefit of the native land and their families as a personal happiness factor.”

The current generation feels responsibility for the country, its future, and for historical memory. To live a proper life means to feel motherland in one's heart, concluded Nikolai Shchekin.