Belarusian president signs directive to boost government efficiency, discipline

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko has signed a new directive aimed at streamlining the country's state governance and ensuring more disciplined management of government functions.

The directive, which was announced by the presidential press service, prohibits state agencies from interfering with each other's responsibilities and mandates that meetings be held only when absolutely necessary, Caliber.Az reports per Belarusian media. 

The directive clearly states that it is "unacceptable" for state bodies or officials to encroach on each other's areas of competence, emphasising the need for clarity in the division of responsibilities. In addition, the directive bans the formation of advisory councils, commissions, working groups, and other similar bodies that might act as substitutes for official government institutions, unless these entities are specifically authorised by law.

One of the key provisions of the directive is the prohibition of "unjustified meetings," including those held remotely. This measure aims to curtail unnecessary bureaucratic processes and improve the overall efficiency of government operations. 

The directive's primary goal is to enhance the effectiveness of Belarus' government system by reinforcing executive discipline and promoting a more socially responsible work culture among officials. In accordance with the directive, the interference of state bodies and officials in each other's areas of competence is prohibited. 

The formation and operation of councils, commissions, working groups, and other expert and advisory bodies that replace government institutions are excluded, except for those explicitly authorised by legislative acts. Unjustified meetings, including remote ones, are also prohibited. 

The document outlines the introduction of modern digital technologies into the practical activities of state governance, with an emphasis on improving the efficiency of official business trips. It also mandates the compulsory evaluation of executive discipline within government agencies.

This assessment will be considered when extending or signing new contracts with agency heads, making decisions based on the results of the leader's certification, promoting them, or nominating them for state awards. The directive includes provisions aimed at streamlining the process of information collection and reducing unnecessary requests from legal entities, as well as ensuring information security.

By Naila Huseynova