The Constitution of Ukraine has been translated in full into sign language for the first time
This was announced by the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine.
To mark the 30th anniversary of the Constitution of Ukraine, a full translation of the Constitution into Ukrainian Sign Language (USL) has been produced for the first time.
The project was carried out to ensure that people with hearing impairments have direct access to constitutional provisions, as well as the rights and duties of citizens.
The Verkhovna Rada emphasises that this is another step towards developing an accessible environment in Ukraine.
Nine professional Ukrainian Sign Language interpreters were involved in producing the translation.
One of the main challenges was the need to harmonise the various regional dialects of UGS so that the text would be equally understandable to sign language users in all regions of the country.
That is why translators from different regions of Ukraine were invited to take part in the project.
How the accuracy of the Constitution was ensured
As this is a legal document, specialists in the field of law were also involved in the work.
They ensured that, during the adaptation of the text, the content of the Constitution’s articles remained unchanged and the accuracy of the legal wording was not compromised.
The Verkhovna Rada notes that the translation required not only linguistic work but also thorough legal expertise.
The Constitution sets out the fundamental rights, freedoms and duties of Ukrainian citizens.
Thanks to the translation into Ukrainian Sign Language, people with hearing impairments will have a more accessible way of familiarising themselves with the provisions of the Constitution.
The authors of the project emphasise that this will help to broaden access to legal information and strengthen inclusivity in society.
The Constitution of Ukraine was adopted on 28 June 1996. In 2026, the Constitution will mark its 30th anniversary.
This anniversary will be marked by a series of educational and historical projects dedicated to the role of the Constitution in the development of Ukrainian statehood.
Follow us on Telegram
