23 years of the Anthem Law: how "Ukraine has not yet died" became a symbol
Exactly 23 years ago, on 6 March 2003, the Verkhovna Rada adopted the law on the National Anthem of Ukraine. It became one of the key symbols of Ukrainian statehood, along with the National Flag and the National Emblem.
The anthem is based on the song "Ukraine Has Not Yet Perished." Its lyrics were written in 1862 by poet Pavlo Chubynsky.
The song was first performed in 1865 in the city of Przemyśl. It was the final number in the first secular "evening gatherings in memory of Taras" in Galicia.
The music for the composition was written by composer Mykhailo Verbytsky.
The law on the national anthem states that all solemn events of national importance must begin and end with its performance.
Desecration of the State Anthem of Ukraine is punishable by law. According to Article 338 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine, such a violation is punishable by a fine of 17 to 68 thousand hryvnias, probation for up to three years, or imprisonment for the same term.
The musical version of the anthem was approved by the Verkhovna Rada on 15 January 1992.
The song "Ukraine Has Not Yet Perished" was officially approved for the first time on 15 March 1939 as the anthem of Carpathian Ukraine.
On 5 December 1991, the composition was performed during a solemn meeting of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine dedicated to summarising the results of the all-Ukrainian referendum and presidential elections.
It was performed by the National Honoured Academic Ukrainian Folk Choir named after Hryhoriy Veryovka, conducted by Anatoliy Avdievsky.
On 26 February 2022, the State Agency of Ukraine for Arts and Art Education called on musicians to perform the National Anthem of Ukraine at concerts in support of the Ukrainian people.
At the same time, new legislative initiatives are appearing in the Verkhovna Rada. In particular, a bill was recently registered to move the celebration of Women's Day from 8 March to 25 February.
Parliament is also proposing to introduce a Bible Day.
In addition, MPs have initiated a proposal not to collect debts from military personnel and their families during the period of martial law and in the post-war period. At the same time, the rules of enforcement proceedings may be changed.
