Culture is an investment in security and the future of the state – Berezhna 30.05.2026 16:16 Ukrinform Deputy Prime Minister – Minister of Humanitarian Policy of Ukraine – Minister of Culture of Ukraine Iryna Berezhna, during the International Festival “Book Arsenal,” emphasized that in 2026, funding for the cultural sphere increased by almost 40% compared to the previous year. This was reported by the Ministry of Culture, Ukrinform informs. “Culture is what allows us to recognize each other, remember our past, and imagine our future. It is a system of values that unites us and distinguishes us from other peoples. That is why investments in culture are investments in Ukraine’s resilience and security,” said Berezhna during a public interview with Yevhen Hlibovytskyi, Director of the Frontier Institute. She stressed that in 2026, funding for the cultural sphere increased by almost 40% compared to the previous year. According to her, this indicates a gradual realization by the state of the strategic role of culture and, at the same time, imposes an additional responsibility on the sector for the effective use of resources.
The speakers also paid special attention to the development of cultural institutions, attracting patrons, reforming cultural funding mechanisms, and supporting industry professionals. Berezhna also spoke about the work on legislation in the field of patronage and the creation of the Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Fund, which has already attracted international support for the restoration of cultural sites damaged by the war. A significant part of the conversation was dedicated to the initiative of the President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy “Thousand-Year,” which allocates UAH 4 billion for the creation of Ukrainian cultural products. “Our task is to create a system that will work independently of personalities. That is why we are enshrining cultural programs through policies, resolutions, and institutional mechanisms. Culture requires long-term investments and stable rules,” emphasized Berezhna. The participants also discussed issues of cultural diplomacy, interaction between the state and civil society, support for Ukrainians abroad, and engaging international audiences with Ukrainian cultural products. As Ukrinform reported, on May 28, the XIV International Festival “Book Arsenal” began in Kyiv, which will last until June 1. “Book Arsenal” is one of the most influential literary and artistic events in Eastern Europe. It was first held in 2011. Book Arsenal Culture Berezhna
Источник: www.ukrinform.ua