Ivanovska advocates increasing language ombudswoman reps in regions
The Commissioner for the Protection of the State Language, Olena Ivanovska, has insisted on the need for at least one representative of the Language Ombudswoman in each region.
"The representation of the Commissioner in the regions should be not only permanent, but also tangible for people - so that every Ukrainian, regardless of where he lives, knows that his right to the state language is protected. Today, we have only five representatives throughout the country. And although they make superhuman efforts every day, objectively this is too few to fully cover all regions. We understand perfectly well that the state currently has limited resources. But, at the same time, we must remember: language is not only a form of communication, it is our defense, our memory and our strength. And therefore, its protection should be a priority," Ivanovska said in an exclusive interview with the Interfax-Ukraine agency.
She noted that in order to respond quickly and effectively to challenges involving violations of language legislation, the presence of representatives of the Secretariat on the ground is necessary.
"At least one in each region. This is not a matter of bureaucracy - it is a matter of human dignity, trust in the state and, ultimately, the implementation of the law On Ensuring the Functioning of the Ukrainian Language as the State Language. Therefore, we insist: increasing the number of regional representatives is not a whim, but a real need of the hour," the Commissioner emphasized.
When asked whether there is a need to expand the Secretariat itself, Ivanovska stated that such a need exists.
"Ideally, we need another separate direction or department that would focus on the implementation of language policy - with an emphasis not only on control, but also on education, popularization of the Ukrainian language, monitoring of legislative initiatives. Such a team could explain, inform, build trust and support for the language law from society. Now we are mostly forced to react," she emphasized.
As reported, on July 15, the Cabinet of Ministers appointed Olena Ivanovska to the position of Commissioner for the Protection of the State Language.
