Belarus Housing Policy 2030: Renovation, Deurbanization, and Modernization

Amid the modernization of the housing stock in Belarus, large-scale changes in the country's housing policy are being discussed. As part of the development of the State Housing Policy Concept until 2030, the Ministry of Architecture and Construction is proposing a comprehensive set of measures aimed at renovation, deurbanization, and the development of rental housing. One of the key issues remains the fate of the residents of outdated “Khrushchev-era” buildings.

Reasons for Demolition and the Need to Update the Housing Stock

Khrushchev-era buildings, constructed using reinforced concrete panels during the Soviet period, played an important role in addressing the housing issue. However, time has changed the requirements for housing quality, and the following shortcomings of old buildings are now unacceptable:

• Small living area and outdated layouts;
• Lack of modern engineering solutions and amenities;
• Inefficiency of investments in major repairs.

For this reason, the authorities consider renovation a more sensible investment than prolonged major repairs.

Main Directions of the New Housing Policy

The developing concept covers several key aspects that will enhance the comfort and quality of life for citizens:

1. Renovation: Demolition of outdated buildings followed by the construction of modern residential complexes in already established neighborhoods.
2. Deurbanization: Reduction of housing construction in large cities and active development of satellite towns and rural areas to combat the excessive influx of workers.
3. Development of Rental Housing: Increasing the volume of rental apartment construction for in-demand professionals with the possibility of subsequent purchase.

How Will the Residents of Demolished Buildings Be Supported?

One of the priority issues is the relocation of citizens living in Khrushchev-era buildings. The plan includes offering them several options:

• Provision of equivalent housing with a living area no less than that of the old apartments;
• Possible financial compensation, allowing them to resolve the housing issue through their own funds;
• Special conditions for workers in the most in-demand professions, such as preferential rental rates and the possibility of purchasing the housing.

Perspectives and Impact on Regional Development

The measures for renovation and deurbanization are aimed not only at updating the housing stock but also at developing the infrastructure of small towns and rural settlements. Among the anticipated positive effects:

• Improvement in living conditions and increased comfort for citizens;
• Reduction of the burden on the infrastructure of large cities;
• Stimulation of economic growth through the balanced distribution of specialists across regions.

As a result of this comprehensive approach, Belarus's state housing policy could become an example of an effective solution to the housing issue and the modernization of outdated stock.

Conclusion

In the coming years, Belarus is preparing for large-scale changes in the field of housing construction. The demolition of Khrushchev-era buildings and the construction of modern residential complexes, the development of rental housing, and measures for deurbanization will become the key instruments of state policy until 2030. These steps will not only update the housing stock but also ensure the balanced development of regions, creating new opportunities for comfortable living and economic growth.