Minsk schools have imposed a ban on using the image of Santa Claus, performing English-language Christmas songs, and setting up Western-style decorations during the New Year and Christmas holidays.
This is reported by Euroradio.FM.
According to the order by municipal authorities, forwarded to teachers, at school matinees, art events, and corporate parties it is prohibited to:
use the image of Santa Claus.
perform English-language Christmas songs, such as Jingle Bells.
set up Western-style decorations.
Instead, teachers are advised to focus on “Belarusian traditions” and employ “famous characters.” However, specific examples of these traditions and characters have not been provided.
The ban applies not only to festive events in schools, but also to field trips, excursions, and New Year’s entertainment shows outside educational facilities. All such events must be coordinated with school administrations or directly with principals.
The ban is part of a broader trend in Belarus to promote “traditional values” and limit the influence of Western culture. Similar restrictions have been reported in other areas, for example, in the field of culture.
