Belarus
Europe's Last Soviet Holdout
Overview
A landlocked Eastern European nation with vast forests and Soviet-era architecture, often called "Europe's last dictatorship" yet home to a rich tradition of folk arts.
Geographic Context
Region
Europe
Subregion
Eastern Europe
Land Area
207,600 km²
Capital
Minsk
Languages
Belarusian, Russian
Currencies
Belarusian ruble (Br)
At a Glance
18
Oyster Score
Composite index
Health
46
Freedom
9
Security
0
Life Expectancy
73.1 yrs
Median Age
40.5 yrs
Urbanization
81%
Cost Index
25
Housing Index
20
Healthcare Access
44/100
Climate
Average Temperature
6.3°C
Average AQI
12
Most Temperate Cities
1 Brestski Rayon 8.2°C
2 Charnawchytsy 8.2°C
3 Damachava 8.2°C
4 Asnyezhytsy 7.7°C
5 Byarozawski Rayon 7.5°C
Best Air Quality Cities
1 Asnyezhytsy 10 AQI
2 Baranovichi 10 AQI
3 Baranovichskiy Rayon 10 AQI
4 Nyasvizhski Rayon 10 AQI
5 Plyeshchanitsy 10 AQI
Cities
Economy & Finance
Finances
Economic Indicators
Cost Index 25
Cost of Living
Price Levels & Affordability
Housing Index 20
Investment
Credit Rating & Markets
Corp. Tax 20.00%
Taxation
Tax Rates & Compliance
Top Income Tax 13.00%
Employment
Labor & Social Protection
Startup Score 13/100
Business Environment
Trade & Commerce
FDI Openness 11/100
Society & Governance
International
Travel
Visas & Entry Requirements
Visa-Free 83 countries
Diplomatic Relations
Embassies & Alliances
Missions 60
Defence
Military & Security
Mil. Spending 1.80% GDP
Infrastructure
Energy & Transport
Internet Speed 49 Mbps
Environment
Emissions & Biodiversity
Alternatives
Similar Jurisdictions
Jurisdiction Guide
Tips & Cultural Insights
Frequently Asked Questions
Sources: World Bank | WHO | Freedom House | OECD · Last updated: 2025