The Commissioner for the Protection of the State Language, Olena Ivanovska, said that in a full-scale war, public performances of Russian-language repertoire, even if they are not formally banned, provoke a negative reaction from society. She said this when commenting on numerous discussions about the appropriateness of using the Russian language in public space.
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According to Ivanovska, the Law of Ukraine “On Ensuring the Functioning of the Ukrainian Language as the State Language” stipulates that the language of cultural events is Ukrainian, but does not exclude the possibility of performing artistic works in other languages, provided that this does not contradict other laws. The performance of songs in Russian is not a violation of this law, unless it is a work related to Russian citizens or producers.
At the same time, Article 15 of the Law “On Culture” provides for restrictions on the reproduction of works by Russian artists or companies related to the aggressor state. However, as the Commissioner emphasised, this restriction relates to the origin of the content, not the language of its performance.
Olena Ivanovska stressed that her mandate is limited to controlling the use of the state language in public space, including in announcements, posters and tickets, but does not include a ban on performances in other languages, unless it contradicts current legislation.
She also noted that law enforcement agencies should respond to violations of law and order or laws banning Russian cultural products.
“Правова допустимість не дорівнює культурній прийнятності”, — підкреслила Уповноважена. За її словами, суспільна легітимність набуває особливого значення у час війни, коли мова є не лише засобом комунікації, а й символом національної стійкості.
She also mentioned that in some cities of Ukraine, including Kyiv and Ternopil, local authorities have already introduced decisions to restrict the use of Russian-language cultural products. However, these decisions are not yet accompanied by sanction mechanisms.
“We need a nationwide legal regulation that will provide legal certainty and clear rules – both for local authorities and for performers and event organisers,” Ivanovska added.
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