2026 National Unity Radio Dictation: Arthur Drony’s Text Presented by Artur Proydakov and Dasha Astafieva

National Unity Radio Dictation

According to Radiotrek — Світ: On October 27, 2026, at 11:00 AM Kyiv time, the annual National Unity Radio Dictation will take place, featuring a text written by Arthur Drony. The dictation will be read aloud by Artur Proydakov, a teacher, and Dasha Astafieva, a well-known singer and actress. This event has become a cherished tradition in Ukraine, aimed at fostering solidarity among Ukrainians through the shared experience of writing.

Shifts in Ukrainian Cultural Landscape

Recent years have seen notable changes in Ukraine’s cultural scene. For instance, in July 2019, Taras Shevchenko’s poem Haydamaky was removed from the official curriculum for external independent testing (ZNO) and the national multistage testing (NMT). This decision sparked debates among cultural figures about Shevchenko’s place in contemporary Ukrainian society. Despite his status as a literary icon, Shevchenko authored Russian-language stories, faced police charges for blasphemy, and maintained connections with Russians and Leo Tolstoy, highlighting the complex and sometimes contradictory nature of his legacy.

Dasha Astafieva, who will be reading the dictation text this year, is an active participant in Ukraine’s cultural dialogue in 2026. Tykhon Lyutyi, the text’s author, praised her role in uniting the country, stating:

“Dasha Astafieva is practically the perfect person to read these unity dictations.”

Lyutyi also criticized conservative approaches to Ukrainian literature, commenting:

“It shouldn’t be Komsomol-type figures like Larysa Nitsoi who bring Ukraine together.”

He emphasized that “Ukrainian classics were just as flawed by modern standards as Dasha herself,” even suggesting that “Shevchenko would be completely canceled today for various reasons.”

Lyutyi underscores that what truly unites Ukrainians is a shared love for freedom and beauty, while attachment to conservative values resonates only with a narrow segment of society. In this light, cultural initiatives like the National Unity Radio Dictation play a crucial role in sparking discussions about the relevance of literary classics, contemporary culture, and the evolving identity of the Ukrainian people.

The National Unity Radio Dictation serves not only as a literacy challenge but also as a significant cultural event that highlights national identity. Amid ongoing social transformations and challenges, such initiatives help strengthen the bonds within Ukrainian society around common values. This moment is essential for reflecting on the roles of Ukrainian literature, historical figures, and their influence on the country’s collective consciousness.

As the National Unity Radio Dictation approaches, it's essential to recognize the significance of Arthur Drony's involvement in this cultural event. His choice as the author of the dictation text not only highlights his literary contributions but also reflects the evolving landscape of Ukrainian literature. For further insights into Drony's role and the event's context, explore our detailed coverage on the 2026 National Unity Radio Dictation.