At the age of 86, the prominent dissident and writer Igor Kalynets has passed away, known for his views and struggle for human rights. He became a symbol of the sixties generation and endured the harshness of Soviet labor camps. His contribution to Ukrainian culture and literature is immeasurable.

This sad news was confirmed by Lviv Mayor Andriy Sadovyi and the regional council.

“Igor Kalynets belonged to a generation that fought for Ukraine's independence. Together with his wife Iryna, they became symbols of resilience and dignity for the Ukrainian people,” the regional administration stated.

We will remember him as a person of indomitable spirit and true intellectuality. Eternal memory to him.

Andriy Sadovyi emphasized that Kalynets and his wife were the “voice of Ukrainian dignity in the darkest times.”

Igor Kalynets was born in Khodoriv in the Lviv region, where from an early age he witnessed the repressions of the communist regime. Despite this, he was captivated by the works of Ukrainian authors from childhood, even those that were banned.

Kalynets received his education at Lviv University, where he met poet Ivan Drach and literary critic Ivan Dziuba.

His works were published in periodicals such as “Zmina,” “Zhovten,” and “Dnipro,” as well as in the Czech Republic.

Since 1965, Kalynets was under KGB surveillance, and his works became grounds for prosecution. His poetry provoked the authorities' discontent, making him a victim of repression.

After his arrest in 1972 and prolonged imprisonment, he returned to Lviv in 1981, continuing his cultural activities by organizing memorial events and supporting the Ukrainian language.

Igor Kalynets was an active participant in Ukrainian cultural life, a member of the International PEN Club, and a laureate of several awards.

In his recent interviews, he spoke about the importance of patriotism among youth, calling for selflessness and active civic engagement.