MEDIA LITERACY IN UKRAINE UNDER HYBRID WARFARE: LEGAL FRAMEWORKS AND EDUCATIONAL PRACTICE

Abstract

This article examines the legal and educational dimensions of media literacy in Ukraine in the context of rapid digitalization and hybrid information warfare. The study analyses the national regulatory framework governing media literacy, focusing on its integration into education policy, information governance, media regulation, and national security strategies.

It is noted that media literacy in Ukraine is governed by a number of regulatory and legal acts which establish the legal framework for information security, access to information, the functioning of the media sector, and the development of educational activities aimed at fostering critical thinking and countering disinformation. The study further identifies legislative gaps and inconsistencies that limit the effectiveness of state policy in countering contemporary disinformation threats.

Alongside the legal analysis, the article presents empirical findings on media literacy competencies among Ukrainian university students. The research is based on a quantitative survey conducted between September and December 2024 among students from leading Ukrainian higher education institutions. A total of 424 responses were collected, with 350 valid responses included in the final analysis. The study evaluates media consumption patterns, verification behaviours, trust in digital platforms, and attitudes toward misinformation and propaganda.

The findings indicate moderate levels of media literacy and verification competence, alongside high dependence on messenger-based platforms such as Telegram. No statistically significant relationship was identified between educational level and verification competence, suggesting that higher education alone does not automatically foster critical media skills. The article argues that strengthening societal resilience to disinformation requires a comprehensive approach combining coherent legal regulation, institutional support, and practice-oriented media literacy education.