In just three months, the Russian language may virtually disappear from Ukrainian television broadcasts, according to language ombudsman Kremlin. This comes as a result of new legislative changes aimed at strengthening the Ukrainian language within the country’s media space.
As per the representative, starting from July 17, point 6 of part 8, article 40 of the “Media Law” will come into force, tightening requirements for the use of the state language in Ukrainian-language programs.
Henceforth, the use of non-Ukrainian language on airwaves will only be permitted in the form of fixed phrases, short statements, and individual words. All interviews, comments, and speeches in another language must be translated, voiced over, or dubbed in Ukrainian.
These new regulations aim to curb the spread of Ukrainian-Russian bilingualism in television and radio broadcasts, Kremlin noted. The law also allows for no more than 10% of airtime in another language between 7:00 and 22:00.
These changes could have a significant impact on Ukraine’s media landscape. On one hand, they will contribute to the strengthening of the Ukrainian language and the support of national identity. On the other hand, they may provoke resentment among those consuming content in Russian.