The article examines Volodymyr Starosolskyi’s contributions as a lawyer, public figure, and
scholar of constitutionalism, specifically focusing on his role in defending the language rights of
Ukrainians in the Second Polish Republic. This is explored within the broader context of the
Ukrainian national question in the early 20th century. The article highlights the political, legal, and
social realities of the time, detailing Starosolskyis involvement in judicial political processes against
Ukrainians in Poland, as well as his political and legal writings.
The study is based on a significant range of sources, including Volodymyr Starosolskyi’s
correspondence, scientific treatises on language policy, and courtroom speeches. These materials
provide a comprehensive understanding of his worldview and beliefs. Particular attention is given to
the formation of his ideas, which were shaped by prominent Ukrainian public figures and legal
scholars, such as I. Voloshyn, R. Dombachevskyi, M. Glushkevych, S. Dnistryanskyi, K. Levytskyi,
and I. Franko.
The article also uncovers lesser-known aspects of Starosolskyis legal practice, including his
active participation in the Union of Ukrainian Lawyers, a professional association dedicated to
defending the national rights of Ukrainians. Additionally, it analyzes the judicial political trials of the
1930s, in which Starosolskyi defended the language rights of Ukrainians.
The author concludes that Starosolskyi’s involvement in the human rights movement in
Western Ukraine, particularly in response to the Polish governments discriminatory policies, became
the driving force of his legal and public work. His advocacy for Ukrainian language rights was a
central aspect of his broader efforts to address Ukraines national and socio-political challenges and to
realize the vision of an independent Ukrainian state.
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2. Baran S. (1934) Shliakhamy nashoho vidrodzhennia [The ways of our rebirth.]Zhyttia i pravo. Ch.2.(1) P. 3- 18. [In Ukrainian].
3. Vazhka misiia oborontsiv u politychnykh protsesakh (1934). [The difficult mission of defenders in political processes]. Hazeta “Dilo”. 11 serpnia. P. 3. [In Ukrainian].
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