How did the 1994 constitution change Belarusian government?

The 1994 constitution marked a significant shift in the Belarusian government by establishing the country as a democratic, social state based on the separation of legislative, executive, and judicial powers.1

Key changes introduced by the 1994 document included:

• Creation of the Presidency: The constitution established the office of president, who serves as the head of state and is popularly elected for a five-year term.12
• Legislative Structure: It empowered the Supreme Soviet as the highest legislative body, responsible for domestic, foreign, and military policy, as well as confirming the budget.1
• Separation of Powers: The framework was designed to balance authority between the legislative, executive, and judicial branches.1

However, this structure was short-lived. Following a disputed 1996 referendum, the constitution was revised to significantly expand presidential authority, allowing the president to rule by decree and prolong his term. These amendments diminished the power of the legislature, replacing the Supreme Soviet with a bicameral National Assembly that held reduced influence, effectively centralizing power under the president.12