The Language Commissioner Explained When Artists Are Allowed to Sing in Russian.

According to inkorr.com: Olena Ivanovska, the language commissioner, commented on the situation surrounding the performances of Ukrainian artists who perform songs in Russian. She emphasized that the law allows the performance of original songs in any language, but the moral aspect of this issue is also important.

According to legislation, public performance of Russian-language sound recordings created by citizens of Russia is prohibited. At the same time, Ukrainian performers who write in Russian are not subject to this ban. Communication with the audience in Russian during performances is also regulated.

Interpretation of the Language of Cultural Performances

“We all danced to Verka Serdyuchka at some point. But I, for example, have never perceived his songs as Russian. It’s a parody, it’s a mix of languages or – as they say – macaronic language. The same language is spoken by the bailiff Tetervakovsky in ‘Natalka Poltavka’ – ‘that’s what, how to say…’.

Olena Ivanovska urged artists to be morally responsible towards their audience and to avoid using the Russian language in contemporary society, which has a negative attitude towards Russian-language content.

Public and Artists’ Reactions

After a resonant performance in Kyiv, Verka Serdyuchka held an energetic show in Odesa, where she humorously greeted the audience with the words: “Hello, Odesa! Happy International Ombudsman Day”.

The public reacts negatively to the Russian-language content of Ukrainian artists, which is reflected in comments and complaints to the language protection commissioner.

In this context, Olena Ivanovska clarified the legislation for Ukrainian performers who sing in Russian. She emphasized moral responsibility and urged artists to avoid the Russian language due to the negative response from society. Verka Serdyuchka continues her performances, even amidst outrage from some viewers and colleagues, as evidenced by complaints submitted to the commissioned organization.