Essential for EU accession: Ukrainian government adopts decision on minority languages
The Cabinet has adopted a decision on languages of national minorities (Vitalii Nosach, RBC-Ukraine)
The Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine has approved the methodology for the use of languages of national minorities in those settlements where they traditionally reside. This is necessary for our country's accession to the European Union, according to the press service of the Cabinet of Ministers.
According to the department's information, the document was developed as part of the reform to protect the rights of national minorities in Ukraine on the path to commencing negotiations on EU membership.
"Today's approval of the methodology, developed after a round of consultations, including with colleagues from the Council of Europe, the European Commission, and representatives of civil society organizations of national communities in Ukraine, is another step towards ensuring the proper protection of the rights of national minorities in Ukraine," said Deputy Prime Minister for European and Euro-Atlantic Integration of Ukraine Olha Stefanishyna.
This methodology establishes unified conditions and procedures for the use of languages of national minorities in those settlements where they traditionally reside or where they constitute more than 15% of the total population.
"The adoption of this resolution is necessary to ensure the implementation of the law and the fulfillment of the recommendations of the European Commission to initiate the negotiation process for Ukraine's accession to the European Union," said Minister of the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine Oleh Nemchinov.
The document, among other things, defines the areas of public life in which the languages of national minorities in Ukraine can be used alongside the state language at the decision of the village, township, or city council. This includes providing topographic information, medical assistance, service in stores, and more.
Issues related to national minorities
The issue of national minorities in Ukraine is one of the most pressing on the path to EU membership.
Some neighboring countries are dissatisfied with Ukraine's policy regarding national minorities. Currently, our country is implementing norms that comply with European standards.
At the beginning of December last year, the Parliament adopted a law that takes into account the recommendations of the Venice Commission on the rights of national minorities (communities) in certain areas.
