"Once, everyone avoided this term, but I firmly introduced the concept of 'ideology'. As you can see, today everyone is talking about ideology, even Americans. There is no need to shy away from it: no one has come up with a better way to describe the process of various transformations, goals, and ideas, whether written down or embedded in people's minds. But they must be grounded in reality. Unlike in Soviet times, when everyone wanted to build communism, but no one truly knew what it was," Aleksandr Lukashenko stressed.

The president has repeatedly criticized the effectiveness of Belarus’ ideological system. "We have made various decisions, but there is still too much formalism [in the system]," he pointed out.

He demanded an end to formal approaches, emphasizing that meetings should not be held just for the sake of appearances. According to the president, the number of attendees in a meeting is less important than how many people actually take away something meaningful from the meeting.

"It is necessary to establish streamlined ideological work in the country. There is no need to hold more meetings, sessions, or forums. Before making any decision, consider its cost, whether it is expensive," Aleksandr Lukashenko emphasized.

In this regard, the president instructed officials to closely monitor official trip expenses, emphasizing that not all trips are financially justified, and require better regulation. "I approve a minister’s trip, for example, but then an entire entourage follows him. This must be strictly controlled: notify the prime minister, who submits proposals, and others. These are enormous costs," the Belarusian leader stated. "Even the president has a whole ‘cavalcade’. Let’s come back to reality and put things in order, regardless of positions or status."

In April, the head of state signed Directive No.12 “On implementing fundamental principles of the ideology of the Belarusian state”. The document aims to elevate ideological work to a brand new level, but Aleksandr Lukashenko believes that the President Administration has been bogged down by routine tasks.

"Do not approach issues formally: analyze them thoroughly," he instructed. "We need to strengthen our ideological system, review public outreach efforts, and free ideologists from unnecessary tasks."

"Television is a good medium, and we have started to embrace the internet. But I always say: we must communicate with people face-to-face. They respect and appreciate this," the president added.

belta.by