The Verkhovna Rada has registered bill No. 9547, which provides for stricter sanctions for the use of Russian musical content in public places. This includes cafes, restaurants, shops, beauty salons, and other public service establishments.
Currently, the current legislation provides for a symbolic fine of 70 hryvnias. The authors of the new initiative consider this an ineffective tool for combating the information influence of the aggressor country.
What do the deputies propose?
- Fines will increase tenfold — from 5,100 to 8,500 UAH for the first violation, and in case of a repeat violation — up to 25,500 UAH.
- The heads of institutions that allow or do not control the broadcasting of banned music will be held responsible. Ordinary citizens will not be held accountable.
- The purpose of the bill is national security. According to the initiators, such measures are aimed at reducing Russia's cultural influence and strengthening Ukraine's information sovereignty.
The explanatory note mentions a high-profile case in the village of Pogreby, Kyiv region, where Russian music was played in a karaoke establishment in the summer of 2023. After a visitor complained, she was removed from the premises, and the police issued the establishment only a minimal fine. This incident caused outrage in society.
The bill is currently being considered by a specialized committee. If it is supported, establishments that ignore the ban will face serious financial sanctions.
