In Ukraine, the issue of respect for intellectual property is often perceived as something abstract: «Well, it’s just a text, a poem, or a song, so what?» But when it comes to big names, the situation changes immediately. Especially if it is Lina Kostenko, a writer who became a symbol of Ukrainian culture during her lifetime. Her works are quoted in schools, printed in books, used in advertising, and even in theatrical productions. But not everyone remembers that behind every line there is not only emotional but also legal value.
The recent scandal in 2025 over the cancellation of concerts due to the use of Kostenko’s works without her consent once again reminded us that copyright is not a formality, but a real tool for protection. And even those we consider “unattainable” use it.
Cancellation of a concert at the request of Lina Kostenko
At the request of Lina Kostenko, concerts entitled «With Your Eyes You Told Me: I Love You» were canceled. The poet stated that the organizers had violated her copyright and prior agreements.
The event was to take place in Lviv on August 11, 2025, at 4:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. on the stage of the Maria Zankovetska Theater. The event was not canceled entirely: the organizing company, Atmosphere, changed the name to “Love Each Other, Black-Eyed Girls” and announced that the program would feature works by other authors.
Representatives of Lina Kostenko explained that the organizers did not obtain the author’s written consent for the public use of her poems and did not even notify her of their intentions to hold such concerts in Lviv. At the same time, posters were actively distributed and tickets had already been sold.
It should be noted that a similar concert took place in Kyiv on June 30, 2025, at the October Palace (MCCM) and had a different outcome. According to Kostenko, certain conditions she had set were met, although they were not agreed upon in advance, but rather during the preparation of the event.
In her statement, Lina Kostenko emphasized:
- any such events should only be held after the author has reviewed the program and given their prior approval, which is especially important during wartime;
- part of the proceeds from ticket sales should be directed to support the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
In Kyiv, the organizers complied with these conditions: despite the high cost of tickets, they donated 470,000 hryvnias to the army. The poetess publicly thanked them for this.
However, in Lviv, neither of the two requirements was met, so the concerts had to be canceled.
The full text of Lina Kostenko’s statement was as follows:
«This unexpected and unfortunate situation compels me to apologize for the conflict that has arisen for reasons beyond my control. I apologize to the people who planned to attend the two concerts in Lviv, “You said to me with your eyes: I love you,” on August 11 this year, to the talented actors and other performers of my works, as well as to the Maria Zankovetska National Drama Theater, which provided its hall for these two concerts. Of course, neither the audience nor the actors knew that the concert organizers had grossly violated copyright and the prior agreement with the author»
Lina Kostenko also emphasized that this is not the first case of her copyright being ignored. She learns about such projects from the internet, as was the case, for example, with the DSP theater community’s production entitled “Ko:lina.” The poet stated that she prohibits the use of her works in this performance.
At the same time, the writer noted that she has many positive artistic collaborations both in Ukraine and abroad, which bring new experiences and the joy of creative interaction. And here, in her opinion, it is important not only to comply with the law, but also to remain in the “zone of ethical safety.”
«We will meet again, dear readers, actors, and musicians, in new contexts—more harmonious and sincere ones,» concluded Lina Kostenko.
Over the past decades, there have been situations when her works were:
- printed without permission in calendars or advertising brochures, where publishers tried to embellish their products with “famous quotes”;
- quoted in political advertising, which the author categorically forbade, as she did not want to be associated with any party;
- were used incorrectly in school events and concerts, where her works were changed or «reworked» without her consent.
Lina Kostenko always emphasized that the author has the right to decide how and where their words will be heard. And even if it is not about money, but about the moral aspect, this right must be respected.
What are the consequences of violation?
Concert organizers, publishers, advertisers, and business owners often think, “Who’s going to notice that we used someone else’s poem or picture?” But the consequences can be very significant:
- financial penalties and compensation for violations can reach hundreds of thousands of hryvnias;
- reputational damage; a media scandal can ruin a brand’s image;
- project disruptions, as in the case of concerts that had to be canceled;
- lawsuits that can drag on for years and require additional expenses.
And most importantly, it is very easy to avoid this. All you need to do is obtain permission, sign a license agreement, and respect the author’s work. If you are planning to organize such an event, please contact our team of lawyers, who will help you obtain the necessary permits.
The story with Lina Kostenko proves once again that intellectual property is not a theoretical category, but a real tool that works. The author has the right to control their works, and even «big business» must take this into account.
There are several lessons here for entrepreneurs and cultural managers:
- Do not use someone else’s content without permission. No texts, no photos, no music.
- Agree with the authors in advance. It is cheaper and easier than going to court.
- Respect moral rights. The author can prohibit use even if you are willing to pay.
- Take into account the term of protection. Works become public domain only 70 years after the author’s death.
Lina Kostenko showed that even if you are a classic, even if millions admire you, you have the right to say «NO». And your word will have power.
For business, this is a signal that copyright works in Ukraine. It is better to play by the rules than to find yourself at the center of a high-profile scandal one day.
copyright / copyright protection / intellectual property / Ліна Костенко
