What makes a country truly strong? Economy, technology and resources are important, but the foundation of any state is its people. Today Belarus, like many countries, faces demographic challenges: the population is aging, and young people more often postpone starting a family “for later.” Statistics make one think: last year, for 52,000 marriages there were nearly 35,000 divorces. Therefore the main task of society and the state is to raise the prestige of responsible parenthood, to foster a culture in which a child is seen not as a challenge to comfort, but as the highest value.

This was discussed at JSC “Neman Glassworks” during the Unified Information Day, attended by Minister of Architecture and Construction of the Republic of Belarus Vadim Olshevsky and Deputy Chairman of the Grodno Regional Executive Committee Andrei Zhuk.

– To improve the demographic situation in our country, an effective system of legal protection of the family, motherhood, fatherhood and childhood has been formed, and a set of measures is being implemented to ensure decent living conditions for families with children. These measures (constantly being improved) include providing paid leave for childcare up to the age of three, payment of state benefits upon the birth and upbringing of children, assigning family capital upon the birth of the third and subsequent child, providing targeted social assistance and social services, as well as guarantees in the field of labor, pension provision, housing‑credit relations and other areas of family life, – emphasized the Minister of Architecture and Construction.

He noted that Belarus has built one of the strongest family support systems in the world. The “Family Capital” program has proven its effectiveness: over ten years the number of large families has increased by 40 percent. By decision of the Head of State, the program has been extended until the end of 2029. The updated Labor Code now allows remote work or flexible schedules. This gives young parents the opportunity to raise children without sacrificing professional growth. Preferential loans and subsidies remain a priority for those building their “family nest.” Free IVF attempts have become a real breakthrough. Behind this legal norm lie thousands of stories of families who have attained the long‑awaited happiness of becoming parents.

There is no doubt that demographic well-being is a matter of our future. The state creates conditions, but success depends on each of us. Supporting traditions, respect for the institution of marriage, and responsible parenthood are the building blocks from which a strong and prosperous Belarus is built. Family is not just a cell of society, it is its heart. And it must beat confidently.

Personnel and housing: how to motivate and retain specialists?

Speaking with the team, Vadim Olshevsky noted that he has been in his new position only a short time: in a few days it will be 100 days since his appointment. However, the Minister of Architecture and Construction has already managed to study in detail the potential of the glass industry, familiarized himself with the work of OJSC Gomelsteklo and OJSC Belmedsteklo. According to Vadim Ivanovich, the production of the Neman glassworks is

The scale of the state program is impressive: according to the socio-economic development strategy until 2030, Belarus plans to build 5 million square meters of housing. Already next year, the construction industry faces an ambitious task – to deliver 900 thousand “square meters”, almost a third of which will be rental housing.

Grodno region is taking an active position in this process. Regional authorities are betting on the development of small towns, understanding that the availability of modern housing is the main argument for a person choosing a place to work and live. The construction of a house in Berezovka will be another confirmation that the state is ready to invest in people's comfort, creating a solid foundation for the development of industry and family well-being.