The Russian Federation is using culture and education in the occupied territories as tools of ideological pressure. Under the guise of lectures, workshops, film screenings, and other events, distorted historical narratives are imposed on the population, war glorification is promoted, and loyalty to the occupying regime is encouraged. Children and young people are especially vulnerable, as they are targeted from an early age through politicised and militarised educational programs and propaganda events aimed at destroying Ukrainian identity and turning them into “patriots of the Russian Federation.”

These actions by the Russian authorities not only violate fundamental human rights but also have long-term consequences, significantly complicating the process of reintegrating liberated territories. The manipulation of cultural heritage, the distortion of history, and the introduction of false narratives leave deep marks on people’s consciousness and create an alternative reality that benefits the occupier.

What can be done? What are the applicable international legal regulations? How should the state, civil society, and educational institutions respond to such challenges?

During the event, we will discuss the legal consequences of using culture as a weapon, the impact of propaganda on the worldview and identity of the local population, especially the youth, manipulations of historical memory and cultural heritage, and mechanisms of reintegration after de-occupation.

Speakers:
Valentyna Potapova, Head of national advocacy direction at Centre of Civil Education “Almenda”
Kateryna Rashevska, Expert at the Regional Center for Human Rights
Daryna Pidhorna, Senior Lawyer at the Regional Center for Human Rights

Moderator: Yanina Korniienko, Journalist at Slidstvo.Info

Organisers: Regional Center for Human Rights & NGO Docudays