In 2024, the Ministry of Defence reinstated the rights of approximately 1,000 military personnel and members of their families

Thanks to the efforts of the Ministry of Defence of Ukraine, the rights of about 1,000 military personnel and members of their families were reinstated in 2024. Most appeals addressed transfers to different military units, matters related to financial allowances, and social protection issues, including compensation payments.

The Central Department for the Protection of Service Members' Rights submitted over 1,000 inquiries and letters to various agencies. Additionally, 10 internal inspections were carried out, two investigations were initiated, and 19 reports of criminal offenses were submitted.

In addition to reviewing appeals submitted to the Central Department for the Protection of Service Members' Rights, its specialists continuously monitor social media and mass media reports to swiftly detect potential violations of service members' and their families' rights. 

“We have also developed key regulatory documents that have reinforced legal mechanisms for protecting service members and have ensured their appropriate social protection,” emphasized Colonel Petro Fivkin, Head of the Central Department for the Protection of Service Members' Rights.

Among the key regulatory changes is Order No. 531 of the Ministry of Defence of Ukraine, dated 06.08.2024, which established the procedure for handling reports and set out the framework for conducting inspections to ensure compliance with the rights and social guarantees of service members and their families.

The proposals of the specialists from the Central Department for the Protection of Service Members' Rights were incorporated into Law of Ukraine No. 4019-IX, dated 10.10.2024, which established the legal framework for military service under contract by foreigners and stateless persons in the Armed Forces of Ukraine, the State Special Transport Service, and the National Guard of Ukraine. 

In cooperation with the Department of Social Security of the Ministry of Defence, amendments were made to Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine Resolutions No. 168, dated 28.02.2022, and No. 975, dated 25.01.2013, regarding the provision of one-time financial assistance.

Furthermore, efforts are ongoing to draft the law "On the Military Ombudsman.”

To reiterate, in April 2024, the Ministry of Defence of Ukraine established the Central Department for the Protection of Service Members' Rights. The Central Department for the Protection of Service Members' Rights operates in accordance with the Regulations approved by the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine's Order No. 23, dated 13.04.2024.