Majority Russian-speaking city in Ukraine considers language ban in the arts
Odesa city officials are debating a proposal to ban the Russian language in public arts and spaces. Proponents argue it is necessary to decolonize the city, while critics fear it could alienate Russian-speaking citizens and play into Russian propaganda.
Why it matters
This highlights the complex cultural and linguistic tensions within Ukraine as the country seeks to define its identity amidst the ongoing war with Russia.
Image source, Global Images Ukraine via Getty Images Image caption, These young activists hold up signs saying the Russian language should remain in Russia
Ukraine's third-biggest city Odesa will decide this week whether to back a controversial plan to ban the Russian language in the arts.
The proposal being considered by councillors in Odesa on the Black Sea coast aims to add to existing restrictions on Russian imposed by national legislation.
It is particularly significant because Odesa is overwhelmingly Russian-speaking, although the ban would only affect public spaces and everyday usage of Russian would remain unaffected.
For millions of Ukrainians, Russian is their first language including many of the troops defending the country in its war with Russia. But Ukrainian is the only state language and spoken by the majority, and some see Russian as a tool of Russian influence.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in