The Ombudsman proposes to restrict Russian music in Ukraine

• The Ombudsman proposes to block Russian music on streaming platforms
• The initiative requires support from state bodies
• The legislation of Ukraine prohibits the performance of musical works by Russian authors

This is reported by Interfax Ukraine, Ukrinform.

The Ombudsman for the protection of the state language, Olena Ivanivska, believes that blocking Russian music on popular streaming platforms is a necessary step for the protection of Ukraine's cultural space.

According to her, the spread of such content in Ukraine is a threat to national security and cultural identity. Ivanivska emphasized that it is particularly important to block music created or supported by individuals who openly support Russia's aggressive policy.

She noted that the most effective approach is to appeal to major global platforms with a clear position based on Ukrainian legislation. In particular, Article 15 of the Law of Ukraine "On Culture" directly prohibits the performance of songs and other cultural products created by citizens of Russia or those who support the aggressive policy of the aggressor state.

The Ombudsman also pointed out the importance of supporting such initiatives at the level of the National Security Council of Ukraine (NSDC) and other state bodies, which should give them weight and official status.

As of February 19, a petition appeared on the website of the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine calling for the blocking of Russian songs on streaming platforms, which gathered the necessary number of votes for consideration. Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal stated that international law and Ukrainian legislation do not provide a basis for banning musical products based on language.

In the context of Russian songs by Ukrainian performers, Ivanivska noted that this is a complex issue, as current legislation does not foresee sanctions for creative products created by Ukrainian artists, even if these works are performed in Russian.

At the same time, she emphasized that there is a strong public demand for the strengthening of linguistic identity in culture, and the efforts to support the Ukrainian language in music will become increasingly relevant.

Tags: Ukraine/Politics/Culture