The Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine banned the import and distribution of books from Russia and Belarus in Ukraine
The Verkhovna Rada banned the import and distribution of publishing products created in Russia and Belarus. However, this will not apply to books published during the Soviet era or earlier.
The Verkhovna Rada adopted the relevant law №7459 On Restrictions on the Import and Distribution of Publishing Products Concerning the Aggressing State, the Republic of Belarus, and the Temporarily Occupied Territory of Ukraine. The document was supported by 306 people’s deputies.
According to the law, from January 1, 2023, books will be published and distributed in Ukraine in the state language, the languages of the indigenous peoples of Ukraine and the official languages of the European Union. Other books will be published and distributed if they are published in the original language.
On the territory of Ukraine they are free to publish (import or distribute) books in any (including Russian) language of Ukrainians or works of foreigners in the original language. It is forbidden to publish, import or distribute books published in Russia or Belarus. However, this will not apply to books published during the Soviet era or earlier, and to their temporary seizure in the occupied territories.
The law prohibits the publication, import, and distribution in Ukraine of books with works by Russian citizens and anti-Ukrainian literature. However, this will not apply to authors who have renounced Russian citizenship and become citizens of Ukraine. Another exception was the publication and distribution of books published in Ukraine by Russian citizens in the period up to January 1, 2023.
However, up to 10 copies of books may be imported for non-distribution if the works are not in the register of anti-Ukrainian goods. Failure to comply with the law imposes a fine of 2 to 10 minimum wages.
