📚 Main Topics

1. Decline of English Language in Russia

   • The Russian government is actively reducing English language education in schools.
   • New laws are being implemented to restrict the use of English words and Latin letters in business names and advertisements.

2. Legislation and Regulations

   • A law passed by the Russian parliament mandates that all public signage and advertising must be in Cyrillic and Russian.
   • Significant fines are imposed on businesses that do not comply with these regulations.

3. Impact on Businesses

   • Many well-known Russian brands currently use English names, which will be affected by the new law.
   • Existing businesses are exempt from changing their names, but new businesses cannot use English or Latin letters.

4. Education Changes

   • English classes in schools are being reduced to only two hours per week for grades 5 to 7.
   • A new subject focused on "spiritual and moral culture of Russia" is being introduced, which is seen as a form of propaganda.

5. Cultural and Intellectual Implications

   • The government aims to keep citizens less educated and more compliant.
   • There is a broader trend of anti-intellectualism, with an emphasis on traditional values over education.

6. Access to English Proficiency Tests

   • Russian citizens face difficulties in taking English proficiency exams due to sanctions and legal restrictions.
   • The British Council, which administers the IELTS exam, is considered a banned organization in Russia.

✨ Key Takeaways

• The Russian government's actions are seen as a way to suppress English language learning and promote a more insular society.
• The reduction of English education and the promotion of propaganda in schools are part of a larger strategy to control the population.
• The restrictions on language use reflect a broader cultural shift towards nationalism and away from globalization.

🧠 Lessons

• Language is a powerful tool for communication and understanding; restricting it can limit opportunities for individuals.
• Education plays a crucial role in shaping a society's ability to engage with the world; reducing access to education can have long-term negative effects.
• The interplay between language, culture, and politics can significantly impact a nation's future and its citizens' freedoms.