Belarus

In 2025, Green Cross Switzerland (GCCH) paused its project activities in Belarus in order to realign its work from 2026 onwards. Support for the basic infrastructure of Green Cross Belarus will continue regardless, ensuring that the work carried out to date can be maintained. The objective of future projects remains unchanged: GCCH will continue to support the regions and people most severely affected by the long-term consequences of the Chernobyl disaster. For these communities, we aim to create local prospects for the future and provide assistance that empowers them to help themselves and sustainably improve their living conditions. Going forward, the focus will be placed even more strongly on promoting renewable energy solutions and the regeneration of nature.

The following sections describe the current situation in the project country and outline the basic structure of the work carried out so far.

Four decades after the worst nuclear accident in history, the consequences for Belarus remain severe (learn more about the Chernobyl disaster here). Children are particularly exposed to the effects of radiation. Their immune systems are weakened, and they face a higher risk of cancer as well as other diseases and health problems. However, the Chernobyl disaster has not only had serious impacts on health; it has also affected the economic and social situation in the affected regions.

Poverty—exacerbated by the departure of skilled workers—scarcity of jobs, an ageing population (due to the exodus of young people) which increasingly feels forgotten, and at the same time far too little international support: all this characterises the region in Belarus most heavily affected by Chernobyl. As one of the few organisations that have remained active in this region to this day, we consider it our responsibility to stand by the people living there.

Child and Youth Programme

The Child and Youth Programme is based on GCCH’s conviction that education plays a key role in providing sustainable, long-term assistance and effective help for self-reliance. Within this programme, numerous children and young people from rural areas receive support. It strengthens essential skills and creative potential, thereby improving their future prospects as well as social cohesion.

The programme, which is carried out both on-site and online, includes participation in workshops, educational modules, and youth camps. The children and adolescents also take part in an international children’s art competition. In the areas of school gardening and environmental education, cooperation takes place with a network of rural schools.

Through these formats, young people are empowered to acquire knowledge, develop talents, and build self-confidence in shaping their own futures. They are encouraged to take an active role in their local communities—ultimately helping to counter rural depopulation and contribute to the sustainable development of their region.

Family Programme

This programme aims to strengthen rural communities in the region most affected by Chernobyl. The goal is to foster social cohesion, improve self-sufficiency, and preserve cultural achievements.

Through local family clubs, community events, and hands-on agricultural initiatives, the programme supports families in coping more effectively with their difficult circumstances, improving their livelihoods, and creating a healthy, vibrant village life. It also promotes knowledge transfer and the development of strategies to enhance long-term local commitment so as to counter the rural exodus.

Key components of the programme include:
1) Family clubs, which support rural residents in the Chernobyl region and serve as contact points for activities
2) Community events and celebrations that preserve cultural traditions and foster community spirit
3) The Social Gardening initiative: hands-on training and knowledge transfer in ecological agriculture for children and families, as well as support for building agricultural infrastructure, such as irrigation systems. This also includes the provision of the materials and tools needed.

Information / Education

The programme aims to impart environmental knowledge, promote understanding of sustainable rural development, and strengthen partnerships in the fields of sustainability and ecology.

Environmental knowledge is conveyed through the development and dissemination of thematic educational materials, workshops, and additional resources for schools, teachers, and rural communities. Key themes include biodiversity, agriculture, and renewable energy.

Visibility of Belarusian environmental initiatives is enhanced through participation in, and presentation of activities at various international forums and conferences, as well as active cooperation with government authorities, the United Nations, and diplomatic missions.