Azarenok discussed the increase in subsidized housing construction and the illusions of Belarusian socialism during his program “Azarenok. Napryamuyu” on August 19, 2024.
“There was socialism: they built houses for free for everyone and they gave out apartments for free to everyone. Well, and now, unfortunately, we have all plunged into capitalism. And only in Belarus the Batska (Lukashenko) is holding it back, let's say, keeping it in check. Why? Because all these social benefits we've been talking about, housing construction, it's constantly growing in square meters for us,” the host said.
According to Belarusian statistics, the construction of homes for social welfare beneficiaries is on the decline. Over the past 18 years, the square footage built for those in need has diminished by around 30%. In 2006, the construction reached 2.2 million sq. m, while in 2023, it shrunk to 1.6 million.
The construction of subsidized housing with government support has decreased even further. In nine years, it dropped by 37%.
In 2015, 33,000 needy citizens improved their housing conditions, while in 2023 it was 24,000, that is, 9,000 fewer.