Schools in occupied Ukraine are reportedly indoctrinating children with Russian nationalist ideology. Russian soldiers are forcing students back into schools teaching pro-Russian curriculum. This includes mandatory Russian national anthem listening, propagandist documentaries, and patriotism classes. The New York Times interviewed a dozen children who attended these classes.
Ksenia, a 15-year-old from southern Ukraine, was forced to attend after her stepfather's arrest. Soldiers raided her home in late October. They confiscated her electronics and pressured her to attend the Russian-language school. Teachers emphasized cheering for Russia, the country that invaded Ukraine.
Education experts and rights groups condemn the Russification efforts. They say Moscow's imposed education system aims to erase Ukrainian identity. This has been ongoing for nearly four years.
Russia's actions violate international norms regarding education in occupied territories. The UN and various human rights organizations have previously expressed concern over cultural erasure in occupied regions. The international community is likely to condemn these actions. Further investigations are expected to uncover the full extent of the indoctrination.
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