Page "Demographics of Belarus" Paragraph 2

The population of Belarus suffered a dramatic decline during World War II, dropping from more than 9 million in 1940 to 7. 7 million in 1951.

It then resumed its long-term growth, rising to 10 million in 1999.

After that the population began a steady decline, dropping to 9. 7 million in 2006-2007.

Originally a highly agrarian country with nearly 80 % of its population in rural areas, Belarus has been undergoing a process of continuous urbanization.

The share of its rural population decreased from 70 % in 1959 to less than 30 % in the 2000s.