How Belarusians can benefit from Erasmus+ and the European Solidarity Corps 

For Belarusian youth, both within the country and abroad, international programmes like Erasmus+ and the European Solidarity Corps (ESC) offer a critical lifeline to opportunity, community, and support. These programmes offer more than just travel; they are a chance to develop skills, build democratic values, and connect with a Europe that stands in solidarity with you. This is your guide to accessing them.

How to participate in existing opportunities

You have direct access to incredible opportunities right now.

• For Erasmus+ Training and Seminars: Visit the SALTO Youth European Training Calendar. Use the filter to select “For participants from: Belarus”, and discover the dozens of currently available training offers. This is your direct path to learning and international experience. For each opportunity, you’ll find information on how to apply, which expenses are covered, where the event is taking place and who’s organising it. You will be able to discover not only trainings, but also seminars and conferences.

• For Volunteering (ESC): If you are under 30, the European Solidarity Corps is for you. The programme offers fully-funded volunteering placements, covering transportation, accommodation, food, and insurance in all EU Member States and some partner countries. To apply, simply register on the European Youth Portal, ensure your settings show opportunities for Belarusians (“Show only opportunities I can apply for”: checked), and browse the 110+ currently available projects.

Turn your idea into a funded project

Do you have an idea for an educational project? Erasmus+ can provide the funding and expertise to make it a reality. LAB-35, in cooperation with international experts from SALTO and Erasmus+, offers a free, practical course to help you to develop your initiative from a draft into a winning funding application. The top projects will receive direct support to submit their application to Erasmus+. 

The deadline to apply for this mentorship is September 4, 2025.

A call for solidarity and partnership

It is crucial to understand the context in which Belarusian civil society operates. Since 2020, democratic organisations have faced liquidation and extreme repression, forcing many to work informally or from exile. These groups are deeply committed to European values, yet they are often wrongly associated with the regime’s actions.

We urgently call on European organisations to look beyond formal barriers. Proactively seek partnerships with Belarusian informal groups and those in exile. Your collaboration is not just a project – it is a crucial lifeline that ensures the future leaders of a democratic Belarus remain connected to and supported by the European community. Now, more than ever, your solidarity matters. More info.

Other tips

For personalised help, you can use the Telegram bot (@grodnoevent_contactbot). Here you can get personalised advice about Erasmus+ and ESC opportunities, join a dedicated Telegram group with open calls for Belarusians or find a sending organisation for an ESC project.

Share this article with friends from Belarus – it might reach someone who needs it.

Belarusian anonymous author