On June 26, President Volodymyr Zelensky signed a new law that makes English an official language for international communication in Ukraine. This law is set to change the landscape of communication in the country significantly. Under the new legislation, specific job positions will now require proficiency in English, and it will be increasingly used in various government and public offices. This marks a significant step in aligning Ukraine more closely with global standards and enhancing its international engagement.
Zelensky first proposed this idea in 2023, recognizing the importance of English in global communication. The Ukrainian parliament, known as the Verkhovna Rada, passed the law on June 4, adding an interesting amendment that provides financial support to movie theaters that show films in English. This could signal a cultural shift away from the common practice of dubbing English-language movies into Ukrainian, offering a more authentic viewing experience and promoting the use of English.
A study conducted by the Kyiv International Institute of Sociology in March 2023 revealed some insightful statistics about the English proficiency of Ukrainians. It found that while 51% of respondents have some knowledge of English, only 23% can use it effectively in everyday situations. The study also highlighted a strong desire among parents for their children to improve their English skills. An overwhelming 93% of parents with children under 18 expressed this wish, with more than half of the children already learning English in school, and many receiving additional instruction outside of school.
The law’s passage marks an important milestone for Ukraine as it seeks to become more integrated with the global community. By emphasizing the importance of English, the country is paving the way for better international communication and opportunities for its citizens. This move is expected to bring exciting changes to daily life in Ukraine, from the job market to education and entertainment, fostering a more globally connected and culturally diverse society.
Shouldn’t an independent nation use its own language for official communication? Does your country have a similar law?
Meanwhile, as soon as the law was passed, Biden regime announced a new $2.3 Billion worth of security aid for Ukraine. The IMF announced it will give another $2.2 billion to pay its government officials. This makes one wonder: Was there a hidden bargain for military support? Was western military aid tied to Ukraine adopting English?
