Belarus has established professional and ethical requirements for guides and guides-interpreters

Professional and ethical requirements for guides and guides-interpreters are determined by the resolution of the National Tourism Agency of October 15, 2026 No. 8 - the text of the document was published on October 21 on the National Legal Internet Portal.

Guides and guides-interpreters, in particular, are obliged to observe the restrictions established by the legislation of Belarus, carry out their activities on the basis of the principles of legality, competence, justice and integrity, show respect for the state symbols of the Republic of Belarus, the history of the development of the Belarusian statehood, cultural and spiritual traditions of the country and the preservation of its historical and cultural heritage, participate in the preservation of historical memory and national values.

Guides and guides-interpreters should also form an idea of Belarus as a country attractive for tourists, tourists, avoid subjective incorrect assessments and statements about Belarus and other states during excursions, as well as take measures to prevent tourists, tourists or other persons from making incorrect, provocative and other negative statements or actions.

In addition, guides and guides-interpreters should have the amount of knowledge and professional skills necessary for conducting excursions on the territory of Belarus, including knowledge of history, ethnography, culture, economy, natural and geographical features, domestic and foreign policy, as well as update the knowledge gained to work on the timely updating of individual texts of excursions, contribute to the improvement of legal, political, personal culture and social responsibility of tourists. They are required to know the basics of the ideology of the Belarusian state, help strengthen the positive international image of the country and recognize the uniqueness of the Belarusian model of social development.

Adhering to generally accepted ethical standards, maintaining the honor and dignity of your profession, as well as personal honor and dignity is another important requirement for such specialists. They should observe generally accepted sanitary and hygienic standards, have a neat appearance, exclude any forms of provocation in clothing and appearance, show tolerance and tact to representatives of other nationalities, cultures, traditions, views and beliefs.

Guides and guides-interpreters are required to prevent the commission of actions that violate public order or are expressed in clear disrespect for society, as well as any actions that discredit this professional activity, to ensure the careful attitude of tourists, tourists to the environment, to maintain respectful relations with tourists, tourists, representatives of the tourism industry, other employees engaged in tourism organizations, officials of state bodies and other organizations, including the body conducting certification. If the state of health of tourists, excursionists or their injuries during the excursions should be reported to the head, as well as organize the provision of first aid to these people. It is necessary to exclude the tour in a state of alcoholic, narcotic or toxic intoxication, as well as to take measures to exclude participation in the tour of tourists, excursionists who are in this state and show aggressive behavior.

The document also defines other professional and ethical requirements for guides and interpreters.

Resolution No. 8 also establishes the form of receipt for excursion services.

The document comes into force after its official publication and extends its effect to relations that have arisen since September 24, 2026. National Tourism Agency certifies more than 50 guides and interpreters