Cabinet of Ministers Establishes English Language Proficiency Requirements for Public Servants and Education Leaders

The Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine has taken a crucial step by approving new requirements regarding English language proficiency for candidates seeking specific roles within public administration, education, science, and several other sectors. The Ministry of Education and Science of Ukraine announced this decision, emphasizing that these changes are integral to a strategy aimed at improving the qualifications of public servants and ensuring their competitiveness on an international stage.

According to the newly adopted regulations, the requirements for English language proficiency will be differentiated based on the position and level of responsibility. For candidates applying for category 'A' public service positions, as well as for heads of local state administrations, their first deputies, and assistants, a minimum English language proficiency level of B1 on the CEFR scale has been established. This indicates that these individuals must possess basic communication skills in English, enabling them to perform their duties at the required level.

It is important to note that these mandatory English language proficiency requirements for candidates for the specified positions will come into effect two to four years after the cessation or cancellation of martial law in Ukraine. This timeframe allows for the preparation of candidates to meet the new requirements and adapt to changes within public administration.

In addition, separate requirements have been established for the education and science sectors. For candidates applying for leadership positions in state scientific institutions and higher education establishments, the required level of English language proficiency must be no lower than B2. For certain category 'B' and 'C' public service positions, as well as some roles in education and science, the government has adopted a differentiated approach, indicating that the level of English language proficiency will depend on the specific position and its functional responsibilities.

The Ministry of Education and Science has stated that the decision also takes into account the specificities of the education and science sectors. For certain candidates applying for positions in this field, knowledge of another official language of the European Union may be considered. If a candidate possesses a document confirming proficiency in such a language at a level no lower than B2, the English language requirement may be lowered to B1. This approach helps maintain consistency in language policy within education and science and aligns the new standards with existing regulations.

Furthermore, it is crucial to highlight that these requirements apply only to candidates for positions defined by law and are not general for all employees in the education, science, or public service sectors. The norms are applicable to specific positions, the list of which is determined by law and relevant government acts.

Taras Melnychuk, a representative of the Cabinet in the Verkhovna Rada, stated on his Telegram channel that individuals applying for category 'A' public service positions, heads of local state administrations, their first deputies, and assistants must possess English language proficiency at a level no lower than B1 according to the Council of Europe’s language education recommendations (CEFR). This requirement will take effect two years after the cessation or cancellation of martial law in Ukraine.

It is worth recalling that on December 24, 2024, the Cabinet approved a list of positions in law enforcement agencies and military personnel for which candidates are required to have English language proficiency. On January 27, 2025, a list of category 'B' and 'C' public service positions was approved, where candidates must also possess English language skills. On March 7, 2025, a list of positions in tax and customs authorities was approved, requiring candidates to have English language proficiency, and on May 23, 2025, a list of positions in the education and science sectors was established, where candidates are also required to possess English language skills.