Story perspectives

Belarus Militarizes Youth: 35,000 Kids in War Drills

11/9/2025

27 2

Summary

Story summary

In Belarus, Alexander Lukashenko's regime militarizes youth by having teenagers aged 13 to 14 participate in military drills.
The state program for 'patriotic education' emphasizes war themes, with over half of school activities focused on military training.
More than 35,000 Belarusian children engage in war games annually.
Critics argue this militarization undermines education and violates children's rights.
The initiative is funded by the state and affiliated organizations.

1 of 1

Story summary

In Belarus, Alexander Lukashenko's regime militarizes youth by having teenagers aged 13 to 14 participate in military drills.
The state program for 'patriotic education' emphasizes war themes, with over half of school activities focused on military training.
More than 35,000 Belarusian children engage in war games annually.
Critics argue this militarization undermines education and violates children's rights.
The initiative is funded by the state and affiliated organizations.