In Mensk, many people can view approximately 5 TV channels, though this is not true for all people in all apartment blocks. What is significant is that four of the channels are from the Russian Federation and only one is from Belarus. People openly express their preference for the Russian channels. Cable television is also available.
The "New Belarusians" and the more wealthy foreigners often have satellite TV; various sized satellite dishes stick out from quite a few apartments, making for quite a contrast to some of the shabby, ill-repaired, Soviet-era buildings.
The Belarusian Television Channel only one channel
Speaks for the government of Belarus (that is, "the presidential administration," with its ideologically based "news" programming & commentaries), thus its news events and economic coverage and "facts" are suspect to say the least. An interesting window to how things were done and presented during the Soviet past. For example, you can see and hear the president of Belarus make his endless pronouncements and speeches. Sad to say (in terms of the disappearing Belarusian cultural identity), but many people in Belarus brag about only watching the Russian channels (approximately 4 in Mensk) or satellite TV, if they are quite upscale.
Includes coverage similar to what is written in Sovetskaya Belorussiya, the state-owned, official presidential newspaper. Also has programming such as Resonance with Aleksandr Zimovsky, which purports to be news and commentary, but is simply more pronouncements from "the presidential administration." (FYI: Zimovsky has been accused of slander for the language of his pronouncements, but the suit has been thrown out of the Lukashenka-controlled, Belarusian court system. January, 2000.)
Some independently produced programs are transmitted on it.
The many cultural programs are especially interesting. A wonderful opportunity to hear and see Belarusian language and culture when in Belarus.
One of the most interesting programs, in terms of Belarusian culture, is Belaruski Dom, with host Serahei Tarasau. The topics are usually about history, and the language is Belarusian. This program is usually broadcast mid-day on Sundays (and probably at other times as well).
Television Broadcasting Network (TBN)
"Founded on April 12, 1995, TBN Television Broadcasting Network
unites twelve non-state private television companies. Our objective
is a family television channel, answering the demands and interests
of every audience."
TBN for today - audience of 5,220,000 people in the 12 largest cities
of the Republic of Belarus:
TBN's main tasks:
Acquisition of local and foreign television programs
Production of television programs and advertisement
Advertising in the broadcasting of non-state television companies
Technical support to non-state televison companies
Professional training of the companies' staff
Television Broadcasting Network (TBN)
15-a F.Skariny St.
Mensk, Belarus, 220072
TEL/FAX: 375 (17) 284-1086; 375 (17) 284-1536; 375 (17) 284-1171