Ukraine's Reaction to Propaganda in Wartime Conditions

This Chapter of the book focuses on Ukraine's legislative and regulatory response to propaganda during wartime. It examines how propaganda has evolved into a complex network of hate speech, fake news, and disinformation, necessitating stringent measures to protect national interests. Ukrainian law includes several provisions limiting freedom of expression to safeguard territorial integrity and public order, particularly heightened after the Crimea annexation and the Revolution of Dignity. Key legislative actions include the “law on decommunisation” and the banning of certain social networks and websites with pro-Russian content. The chapter also highlights the introduction of new criminal offenses related to wartime propaganda, such as denying the ongoing war and justifying the invasion. The recently adopted Law “On the Media” expands prohibitions on spreading information that glorifies totalitarian regimes, justifies Russian aggression, or denigrates the Ukrainian state and language. Through specific case studies, the chapter illustrates how these legal measures are enforced to counter illegal propaganda effectively. This multifaceted approach involves legislative, technical, and cognitive strategies to mitigate the harmful impacts of propaganda.