Projects

Despite the large number of landmarks and recreation areas, Belarus lacks experience to enable successful development of the tourism sector. Meanwhile, tourism is a driver of national economic development.

The Belarusian rural population, whose income is much lower than that of townspeople, is at risk of falling below the poverty line. In view of the low productivity of agricultural companies, which are unable to offer adequate wages, self-employment may be an alternative. Entrepreneurship enables both the prevention of poverty and support to sustainable regional development.

Polack, the first Belarusian city to become a member of the Covenant of Mayors, developed its own Sustainable Energy Action Plan with EU support. Adopted in 2012, the document includes a number of measures to improve the energy efficiency of municipal buildings and companies, renewable energy generation, expansion of green areas, enhancement of the operation of public transport and improvement of the street lighting system. The PubLiCity will offer another opportunity for Polack to fulfill its commitments under the Covenant of Mayors.

The Programme is aimed at enhancing the civil protection capacity in the six Eastern Partnership countries, including Belarus. Its implementation will help improve the efficiency of national-level disaster risk management and protect the population from potential negative effects of natural and man-made disasters. An important part of the Programme is to enhance regional cooperation within the participating countries to foster interaction with the EU Civil Protection Mechanism.

51 important bird areas (IBAs) are identified in Belarus. These are wildlife and nature spots, unique ecosystems that became home to hundreds of bird species. Preserving them means maintaining the country's biodiversity.