Why Do Ukrainian Government Websites Use Only Ukrainian and English?

The official language policy in Ukraine is a topic of considerable interest, particularly in light of the recent political and economic developments. The country's decision to use only Ukrainian and English on its official websites can be traced back to a deep historical and cultural context.

Official Language: Ukrainian

Ukrainian is the official language of Ukraine, as voted by the Ukrainian Parliament in 1996. This decision was part of a broader effort to promote national identity and cultural heritage after gaining independence from the Soviet Union. However, the use of Ukrainian as the official language has not been without controversy, with implications for communication and international relations.

English as the International Language

In the context of global communication and business, English is often considered an indispensable tool. The inclusion of English on Ukrainian government websites reflects the country's recognition of English as the de facto international language. This dual-language approach aims to promote both national identity and international engagement.

A recent study [citation] indicates that over 80% of people in the United States claim to speak English or at least some form of it. This reflects the widespread adoption of English in both personal and professional settings globally. In contrast, Ukraine's reliance on English underscores the importance of international communication in the modern world.

The Historical Context: Suppression of the Ukrainian Language

Historically, the Ukrainian language faced suppression under Russian occupation. For centuries, Russian was imposed as the sole language of administration, education, and culture, effectively marginalizing Ukrainian. The suppression of the Ukrainian language was a tactic used to subjugate the population, leading to a deep-seated desire for linguistic and cultural freedom.

Following the collapse of the Soviet Union, the Ukrainian government took steps to reverse this linguistic suppression. In 1996, Ukrainian was designated as the sole state language. This move was seen as a critical step towards reclaiming national identity and fostering a sense of unity among the diverse populations within Ukraine.

Social and Geographical Divisions

The use of Ukrainian as the official language has not been universally embraced. Different regions within Ukraine have distinct linguistic preferences, reflecting historical and cultural ties. Western Ukraine has a strong tradition of using Ukrainian, with many residents speaking the language natively. In contrast, Eastern and Southern Ukraine often have a cultural preference for Russian, reflecting historical ties to Tsarist and Soviet Russia.

A notable example is Western Ukraine, where the use of Ukrainian is deeply rooted. Many people here have been speaking Ukrainian for generations and view it as an essential part of their cultural identity. However, the situation in Eastern and Southern Ukraine is more complex. While some residents speak Russian natively, others have a desire to distance themselves from Russian influence and embrace a distinct Ukrainian identity.

Language Policy and Personal Choice

Many residents of Ukraine fall into a category where they are comfortable speaking Russian but are also willing to use Ukrainian in official contexts. This discrepancy is exemplified by individuals like Arsen Avakov, the Minister of Internal Affairs. Despite being an ethnic Armenian who routinely uses Russian, Avakov supports language policies that favor Ukrainian.

Avakov's use of Russian is a reflection of his personal comfort level with the language, rather than a formal position on language policy. This dynamic is indicative of a broader social phenomenon: people may prefer to use Russian in everyday life but supports the use of Ukrainian in official and symbolic contexts.

Such individuals are a significant part of the population, resulting in a complex socio-political landscape. The government’s decision to implement bilingualism on official websites aims to address this diversity, ensuring that both Ukrainian and English are accessible to all users.

Conclusion

The decision to use only Ukrainian and English on Ukrainian government websites is rooted in a complex combination of historical, cultural, and linguistic factors. While Ukrainian is the official language, the inclusion of English acknowledges the importance of international communication and global engagement. The varying preferences for Russian and Ukrainian among different regions and communities highlight the need for a nuanced approach to language policy.

Ultimately, the dual-language strategy reflects a commitment to cultural diversity and national unity. As Ukraine continues to navigate its path as an independent state, this approach will remain a key component of its language policy.