Ukraine continues its European integration course, strengthening international ties and improving its competitiveness on the global stage. One of the important steps in this direction was the adoption of a new law on the use of English in Ukraine. This regulatory act aims to promote the spread of English as the main language of international communication in public spheres of life and increase the level of its learning among citizens.
Main objectives of the law
The Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine adopted this law to ensure the country's active integration into the European and Euro-Atlantic community. The English language is seen as a key tool in strengthening ties with international partners, increasing the country's tourism and investment attractiveness. The law also aims to develop language education and English language learning by citizens.
Status of English
English is recognized as a language of international communication, which requires its active use in public spheres of life: from public authorities to education, medicine and culture. At the same time, the law does not limit the functioning of Ukrainian as the state language, which is enshrined in the Constitution of Ukraine, and also supports the use of national minority languages.
Requirements for civil servants
The law establishes mandatory knowledge of English for certain categories of officials, including civil servants, military personnel, police officers, prosecutors, and heads of scientific and educational institutions. Anyone applying for such positions must prove their language proficiency in accordance with European standards (CEFR) or NATO standards (STANAG). Those with a B2 or higher level of English are eligible for salary supplements.
English in government agencies and emergency services
Government agencies can now use English in their correspondence with international partners and organizations. Official government websites must have an English-language version containing up-to-date information about the activities of these bodies. Also, emergency services, including the police and medical institutions, are obliged to provide assistance in English at the request of foreigners.
Changes in the educational sphere
The law pays special attention to the study of English in the education system. Early learning of English is provided in kindergartens, and in schools it is compulsory as a first or second foreign language. Universities and research institutions should also ensure that their official websites are available in English to make information about their educational programs accessible to the international community.
English in Culture and Tourism
The use of English is becoming mandatory in the field of culture and tourism. Museums, archives and cultural institutions should provide information in English, and all tourist signs should be duplicated in English. This will make it much easier for tourists to access information and improve the overall image of Ukraine as a hospitable European country.
Prospects for the implementation of the law
The adoption of this law is an important step towards Ukraine's integration into the European and global community. Learning and using English will help Ukrainian citizens to be more competitive in the international arena, opening up new opportunities for business, science, education and tourism.