This is the first Voluntary Report on implementation of international humanitarian law (IHL) issued in Ukraine. It reflects the systematic approach and the unique experience of implementation, compliance with and dissemination of IHL. 

It particularly highlights: 

●       Evacuation of civilians (by UAVs) targeted by the enemy fire;

●       Delivery of humanitarian aid to children by drone;

●       Precise targeting of military objectives at varying distances;

●       IHL dissemination through television and mobile devices, etc.

Such Reports have become a global trend in recent years. It was initiated by the United Kingdom and has been adopted by more than 15 countries.

According to Ukraine’s Deputy Minister of Defense, Brigadier General Serhii Melnyk, the Ukrainian Ministry of Defense's Report is unique.  Firstly, no state in the world has released such document while engaged in such intense international armed conflict. Secondly, no defense ministry in any country has issued it on own behalf. Thirdly, this Report demonstrates the Ministry of Defense's transparency in IHL sphere.  

“The Ukrainian Red Cross considers Voluntary Report on the IHL implementation as a significant tool for promoting transparency and accountability during the armed conflict. As a supportive entity of the state, we are thrilled to assist the Ministry of Defense with this initiative,” said Maksym Dotsenko, CEO of the Ukrainian Red Cross Society.

The UK National IHL Committee played an essential role in preparing the Ministry of Defense’s Voluntary Report.

“It was an honour for members of the UK National IHL Committee to collaborate with Ukraine on the publication of their Voluntary Report. Publishing such a report, despite the challenges of doing so in an armed conflict, is incredibly impressive. This publication can assist Ukraine in conversations with other States and civil society to explain what its Ministry of Defense is doing to implement and promote IHL,” mentioned Andrew Murdoch, the Chair of the UK National IHL Committee.

The Voluntary Report of the Ministry of Defense is directed towards representatives of state authorities, international organisations, and the academic community in Ukraine and abroad.

It was first presented to the international community in Geneva at the 34th International Conference of the Red Cross and Red Crescent. It is the largest humanitarian platform, held once per four years.

“In 122 pages, with 50 practical examples across 6 chapters, it explains IHL system and practice. It's a legal way to demonstrate to partners   Ukraine's adherence to IHL and reliability in providing weapons and military equipment. It is a call for more decisive actions and political decisions on providing international military assistance to fight for common values,” said the Deputy Head of the International Law Section of the Legal Department of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine, Lieutenant Colonel Inna Zavorotko.

The Ministry of Defense's Voluntary Report on implementation of international humanitarian law is available in both English and Ukrainian.