Ministry of Culture prepares ban on Russian-language literature

Russian-language literature may be banned in Ukraine

Ukraine plans to consider the possibility of a complete ban on Russian-language literature. This was announced by the Minister of Culture Olena Berezhna.

According to her, the agency is working on a decision on withdrawal from circulation both books published in Russia and publications in the Russian language in general.

Resolution in development

The Ministry of Culture noted that the relevant the resolution is already under preparation.

The document should define legal mechanisms for restricting the distribution of such literature in Ukraine.

The context of cultural policy

Since the outbreak of full-scale war, Ukraine has consistently limited Russia's cultural and informational influence, in particular:

• bans Russian media content;

• restricts imports of book products from Russia;

• supports the development of Ukrainian book publishing and translation.

A possible complete ban on Russian-language literature could be one of the toughest steps within the framework of this policy.

What's next

The final decision will depend on the adoption of a government resolution and further legislative procedures.

At the same time, the issue is sparking a broad public debate about the balance between cultural security and freedom of access to literature.