Making military service more attractive: The Ministry of Defence’s focus on career, education, and social protection

With the Strategy for Attracting, Developing, and Retaining Human Capital in the Defence Forces until 2027, the Ministry of Defence aims to fundamentally transform personnel management into a modern and effective system. 

The strategy covers every stage of a service member’s professional journey, from entering military service to the conclusion of their career and transition to civilian life. 

The Ministry of Defence aims to establish a comprehensive and coordinated structure for managing human resources within the Defence Forces. This applies to both during wartime and in the postwar period. 

“Our military personnel are the core of the nation's defense. Therefore, we must ensure they have suitable service conditions, career advancement opportunities, and comprehensive psychological, medical, and social support. The Strategy establishes a transparent system of financial support, modern training standards, clear mechanisms for professional advancement, and effective reintegration for veterans into civilian life. This will greatly enhance citizens' motivation to defend their homeland and establish military service as a prestigious profession,” emphasized Deputy Minister of Defence of Ukraine, Brigadier General of Justice Serhii Melnyk. 

Special focus is placed on enhancing the professional military education system, integrating it with career management, and introducing basic general military training in higher education institutions.

The Ministry of Defence is implementing new approaches to social protection for military personnel. This includes developing a transparent financial support system, providing social assistance, enhancing medical care and rehabilitation for service members, and supporting the families of fallen and missing defenders.

“The Human Capital Development Strategy is a comprehensive document outlining the Defense Forces' vision for the institutional and procedural transformation of the system for attracting, developing, and retaining human capital. It addresses all aspects of military service, both during active combat operations and postwar. Its implementation will provide service members with a clear understanding of career prospects and development opportunities supported by the state,” said Colonel Mark Andrusiak, Director of the Personnel Policy Department at the Ministry of Defence.

Another important aspect is the deepening of cooperation with NATO, the integration of Euro-Atlantic standards into the training and career management system for military personnel, and enhancing the readiness of military units for joint missions. 

The implementation of the Strategy entails the development of annual plans and the monitoring of progress against key performance indicators. A specially established Interagency Working Group will coordinate interagency cooperation.

The successful implementation of the document will enhance Ukraine’s defense capabilities, expedite Euro-Atlantic integration, and ensure the effective development of human capital within the Defence Forces.