On March 14, Andrii Nadzhos, Deputy Minister of Culture and Strategic Communications of Ukraine for European Integration, held a meeting with Hallvard Gorseth, Head of the Council of Anti-Discrimination Department of the Council of Europe.
The discussion focused on the protection of the rights of national minorities, progress in aligning Ukrainian legislation with EU standards, and legal challenges related to ratifying the European Charter for Regional or Minority Languages.
Andrii Nadzhos expressed his gratitude to the Council of Europe for its continued support during the war and stressed the importance of further cooperation on issues related to national minorities, media, advertising, and Ukraine’s European integration.
“The Ministry of Culture and Strategic Communications is currently focusing on aligning our legislation with EU standards, particularly through changes to the advertising law, which address gender identity, nationality, and the rights of vulnerable groups”, emphasized the Deputy Minister.
He also mentioned that the Ministry is working on a new strategy for the development of Ukrainian culture, with a strong focus on protecting culture and preserving cultural heritage.
The Ukrainian delegation informed their counterparts about Ukraine’s participation in the screening process for 12 negotiation chapters related to culture and media, including preparations for the screening of Chapter 26, “Education and Culture”.
The Deputy Minister also emphasized the need to strengthen human resources in the cultural sector, particularly at the local level, due to personnel losses during the war and limited professional development opportunities. He highlighted the importance of short-term training and educational programs for emerging specialists and cultural managers.
Hallvard Gorseth, Head of the Council of Anti-Discrimination Department of the Council of Europe, introduced his team and provided insights into the department’s ongoing anti-discrimination efforts.
Representatives of the Council of Europe reaffirmed their commitment to supporting Ukraine in protecting the rights of national minorities and advancing the implementation of reforms as part of Ukraine’s European integration process.
