For the first time in the history of independent Ukraine, an heir whose relative is depicted on the national currency has officially granted the National Bank of Ukraine consent to use the image of his father on Ukrainian money.
This is far more than simply a signed document. It is a historic precedent that establishes a new culture of interaction between the state and the families of prominent Ukrainians.
Following an active public discussion of the design of the new commemorative 2,000-hryvnia banknote dedicated to Vasyl Stus, LOBBY CLUB Ukraine joined the dialogue between the National Bank of Ukraine and the poet’s family.
As a result of this work, Dmytro Stus — the only son, heir, and legal successor of Vasyl Stus — has officially granted the National Bank of Ukraine written consent to use the image, name, signature, quotations, and other elements associated with Vasyl Stus for the creation and introduction into circulation of the new commemorative banknote.
Decisions such as these set a new standard of respect for historical heritage, for copyright and personal non-property rights, and for the memory of prominent Ukrainians.
I sincerely thank the Governor of the National Bank of Ukraine, Andriy Pyshnyy, for his openness to dialogue and his readiness to establish a new practice of interaction. Special thanks go to Dmytro Stus for his statesmanlike position and his trust in this process.
For Lobby Club Ukraine, it is a great honor to serve as a platform that helps build understanding where it is needed most. We are convinced that the best solutions are born not in public disputes, but at the negotiating table.
