Formation and Development of the System of Informing the Population of Belarus after the Chernobyl Disaster
Keywords:
chernobyl disaster, affected territories, information policy, radiation safety, radioecological culture, social activityAbstract
The dynamics of the development of the public information system in the Republic of Belarus after the Chernobyl accident is analyzed. It is noted that underestimating information efforts in the early years had serious consequences. Thus, the secrecy regime and the lack of reliable information created the basis for panic, Chernobyl myths, and led to the emergence of radiophobia.
The transition to a systemic information system was implemented in the early 2000s. The «Concept for Informing the Public and Government Bodies on the Problems of the Chernobyl Disaster» was developed.
Information efforts were further developed within the framework of the State Program for Overcoming the Consequences of the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant Disaster for 2006–2010 and the Program for Joint Activity of Belarus and Russia in Overcoming the Consequences of the Chernobyl Disaster for the same period. The national structure for coordinating information efforts was created – the Belarusian Branch of the Russian-Belarusian Information Center on the Consequences of the Chernobyl NPP Disaster. The State Program for Mitigating the Consequences of the Chernobyl NPP Disaster for 2011–2015 and for the Period up to 2020 includes a separate section entitled «Improving information efforts». Comprehensive Information Support System for Mitigating the Consequences of the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant Disaster was developed.
The Program for Joint Activity of Belarus and Russia in Overcoming the Consequences of the Chernobyl Disaster for the Period up to 2016 made a significant contribution to the development of information efforts. A number of innovative projects have been implemented.
Currently, radiation protection is gradually losing its priority over other areas – social, economic, and psychological. The emphasis is shifting towards the social rehabilitation policies and the development of social engagement among citizens.
References
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