The Language Ombudsman issued six citations for the use of Russian at the Budzhak Council

Anna Nerush, a representative of the Language Ombudsman, filed six reports regarding the use of the Russian language during a meeting of the Budzhak Town Council in the Odesa region. The violations were committed by the community head, two officials, and three council members.

This was reported by the Commissioner for the Protection of the State Language. 

Those who violated the law explained their use of a non-state language by citing the region’s multi-ethnic character. However, the representative of the Language Ombudsman did not consider this a valid reason.  

Neither Bulgarian nor Gagauz was spoken at the plenary session. Russian was spoken. And this is not a consequence of “multiethnicity.” It is the result of years of Russification, which is a problem far beyond just the Bolhrad district. And this issue needs to be addressed,” emphasized Anna Nerush.

She also stressed that the requirements of language legislation are the same for all citizens of Ukraine, regardless of their ethnic origin.

Overall, the plenary session of the Budzhak Town Council was conducted in Ukrainian. A few questions and comments were made in non-official languages.

Earlier, a language inspection was conducted at the Odesa Regional Academic Drama Theater following complaints. Five administrative reports were filed—one against the theater’s director and four against members of the Artistic Council. The inspection was launched following the public outcry over the cancellation of the play “Mina Mazailo,” which had been prepared by a student director.

Юлія Калабайда