'Thousand Springs' Program Now Underway
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has announced the launch of a new cultural support initiative called 'Thousand Springs.' Designed to boost the development of cultural products in Ukraine, the program covers seven categories:
- films
- TV series
- animation
- music
- performing arts
- visual arts
- social media content creation
The initiative has already drawn 1,151 applications, with the final results set to be announced on June 12.
Zelensky noted that roughly 17% of the submissions are debut projects, highlighting the surge of emerging talent.
“This is the launch year. From now on, annual support for Ukrainian culture will only increase,” he stated.The president expressed gratitude for the high level of participation and stressed the critical importance of growing modern Ukrainian culture, especially amid the full-scale war.
“Creative energy in Ukraine is not fading. I thank everyone working to amplify the Ukrainian voice through art,” Zelensky added.
Preserving Cultural Heritage
Beyond fostering new creative works, the Thousand Springs program also addresses the urgent need to protect cultural heritage. Since the war began, three UNESCO World Heritage sites in Ukraine have suffered damage: the historic city centers of Lviv and Odesa, as well as the Saint Sophia Cathedral and Kyiv Pechersk Lavra complex in Kyiv. In total, 1,723 cultural heritage sites across the country have been damaged or destroyed. Additionally, 2,524 cultural infrastructure facilities have been hit, with 513 of them completely obliterated.
Thousand Springs represents a major step toward sustaining Ukrainian culture and encouraging fresh artistic initiatives nationwide.
The launch of this program is a vital response to the challenges facing Ukrainian culture during wartime. By backing new creative projects and safeguarding cultural landmarks, the initiative aims not only to rebuild but also to strengthen Ukraine's cultural identity. Its implementation could lay the groundwork for a broader cultural revival in the country.