On March 31, the provisions of parts twelve and fourteen of Article 40 of the Law of Ukraine "On Media" came into force, which strengthen the requirements for the use of the state language in the field of television and on-demand audiovisual services. This was reported by the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine, writes UNN.
Details
Content language control covers both TV channel packages and online cinemas, streaming platforms, and other services that provide access to films and programs at the user's choice.
From now on, in every package of TV channels licensed or registered in Ukraine, at least 60% of channels must broadcast in the state language. For online services, the share of films and programs in Ukrainian in the catalogs must be at least 25%, and if there are several audio tracks, Ukrainian must be set by default
At the same time, the Law stipulates that retransmission of TV channels from the EU does not relieve providers of the obligation to comply with the Ukrainian share in the package.
Activities in the field of television are also regulated by paragraph 7 of part eight of Article 40 of the Law "On Media": non-state language can only be used in short phrases or remarks that do not exceed 10% of the program's duration, and all other speeches must be dubbed or translated into the state language.
The introduction of language quotas is the final stage of a phased increase: 30% in 2024, 45% in 2025, and 60% from March 31, 2026.
It is noted that from July 2024, it was established that all publications must have a Ukrainian-language version.
The introduction of new norms emphasizes the importance of the Ukrainian language in print media. The consistent implementation of relevant legislative norms is aimed at strengthening the Ukrainian-language media space, ensuring access to cultural products in the state language, and realizing the constitutional status of the Ukrainian language in the modern information environment
It is also noted that non-state language is allowed to be used only in short phrases (up to 10% of the program's duration).
Retransmission of TV channels from the EU does not exempt from compliance with Ukrainian quotas.
The law is designed to strengthen the Ukrainian-language media environment and ensure access to cultural products in the state language.