Ukraine Raises Status of English in Country
Many workers in Ukraine's public sector may soon have to pass English tests to keep their jobs, according to reports in the country's media.
That's after President Volodymyr Zelenskyy introduced a new law that makes English one of the official languages of international communication in the country.
That's not the same as an official language, but the idea is to help Ukraine move closer to its goal of joining the European Union.
Ukrainian is still the country's only official language. But although many people also speak Russian, demand for English language learning has increased since Russia invaded the country in February 2022.
The new law will help make Ukrainian workers more competitive in the international jobs market, according to the bill.
The New Voice of Ukraine said more information about cultural events and information for tourists, including directions at airports and bus stations, will now be published in English.
The newspaper added that older preschool children will now have to learn English as well.
The government hopes improved levels of English will help attract foreign investment to the country, and help Ukrainian businesses operate abroad.
It should also make it easier for Ukrainians to travel.
Cinemas that show English-language movies will get financial support, according to the bill, but a previous plan to stop dubbing foreign films into Ukrainian did not make it through parliament.
The government has also said it will provide financial support for people who want to take English language courses.
"We will do everything so that every Ukrainian can speak English," said the country's prime minister, Denys Shmyhal.
A 2023 survey by the Kyiv International Institute of Sociology found that about half of Ukrainians had some knowledge of English. However, only 23% said they could read, write and talk about "everyday and professional topics."
