Reducing foreign language classes in russian schools as a tool of militarization
The russian ministry of education plans to reduce foreign language instruction in schools starting in 2026. In grades 5–7, the number of classroom hours will be cut from 510 to 408, ostensibly to “optimize the academic workload.”
▫️ Formally, foreign languages will remain a mandatory subject. In practice, however, the state is consistently diminishing their role in school education. Fewer languages mean less access to alternative sources of information, a narrower understanding of the world beyond the russian propaganda bubble, and fewer opportunities for education or emigration.
▫️ At the same time as language classes are being reduced, schools are expanding the propagandistic course “talks about important things,” filled with militaristic narratives. The educational imbalance is evident: instead of languages that foster critical thinking and a broader worldview, children are being indoctrinated with a cult of war.
Limiting the study of foreign languages is part of a broader strategy to militarize and isolate society. The kremlin’s logic is simple and cynical: languages are unnecessary in wartime, and it is far easier to control people when they know less and are unable to step outside the state-imposed worldview.
