Russification and Propaganda in Schools: A New Malicious Practice in Occupied Ukrainian Territories
In the temporarily occupied regions of Ukraine, local authorities have implemented a disturbing new policy in educational institutions, raising serious concerns among Ukrainian experts and the public.
Students are now compelled not only to learn but also to publicly perform so-called ‘patriotic songs’ authored by Russian performers and propagandists—including figures like Shaman, Oleg Gazmanov, Denis Maidanov, and Sergey Trofimov.
This innovative curriculum, introduced on occupied territories, involves students studying and actively singing songs that glorify Soviet times and spread Russian ideological narratives.
Among the mandatory pieces are well-known compositions like ‘Victory Day’ and other Soviet classics, which symbolize victory and foster remembrance of the past, in line with current Kremlin political rhetoric.
Experts from the National Resistance Center argue that this music policy is more than just an educational element; it is a deliberate tactic aimed at Russification and youth militarization.
Moscow seeks to shape children’s ideological consciousness from an early age by imposing propagandistic narratives through popular culture.
Previously, the ‘Yellow Ribbon’ movement reported that on the occupied territories, such as Melitopol, events were organized in kindergartens and schools to instill hatred towards Ukraine.
Children were even forced to participate in competitions involving toy weapons and ‘search for UAF saboteurs,’ cultivating hostile attitudes towards their homeland, and fostering loyalty to Russian narratives.