Mobilization in Ukraine: who is subject to it and citizens' obligations

Mobilization is the planned transition of the country's economy and the Armed Forces to operate under martial law or during a special period. It is essential for repelling external aggression. 

The Ministry of Defence of Ukraine provides clarification on citizens’ obligations regarding mobilization and the categories of individuals subject to mobilization during a special period.   

What is mobilization, and why is it conducted?

Mobilization can be either general or partial. General mobilization occurs nationwide, while partial mobilization is limited to specific regions and may involve designated sectors of the economy, the Armed Forces of Ukraine, other military formations, civil defense forces, as well as enterprises, institutions, and organizations.

The organization and procedures for mobilization are governed by the Law of Ukraine ‘On Preparation and Implementation of Mobilization’, decrees of the President of Ukraine, and resolutions of the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine.

Upon the announcement of mobilization or the imposition of martial law in Ukraine, or in specific regions thereof, a special period takes effect, affecting the functioning of the national economy, state authorities, other governmental bodies, local self-government bodies, the Armed Forces of Ukraine, other military formations, civil defense forces, enterprises, institutions, and organizations.

Mobilization may remain in effect throughout the duration of martial law in Ukraine.

Citizens’ obligations regarding mobilization

In accordance with Article 65 of the Constitution of Ukraine, citizens are obligated to defend the Homeland, as well as the independence and territorial integrity of Ukraine.

To fulfill this duty, citizens are legally required to:

• Report to Territorial Recruitment and Social Support Centers (TRSSCs) at the date, time, and location specified in the call-up notice for military registration, determination of their assignment during a special period, or referral for a medical examination;

• Provide, in accordance with established procedures during mobilization, buildings, structures, vehicles, and other property in their ownership to the Armed Forces of Ukraine, with subsequent compensation by the state for their value;

• Undergo an annual medical examination to determine fitness for military service;

• Carry a military registration document in either paper or electronic form and present it upon request to an authorized representative of the TRSSCs, a police officer, or a representative of the State Border Guard Service of Ukraine operating in the frontier zone, within the supervised border area, and at the state border checkpoints in Ukraine;

• Notify the TRSSCs (or other bodies where they are listed in the call-up registry) or through the Reserve+ electronic account of a conscript of any changes to personal information within seven days;

• Comply with other requirements of current legislation, such as adhering to the Rules of Military Registration for Conscripts, Reservists, and Persons Liable for Military Service.

Who is subject to mobilization?

As a general rule, mobilization applies to men liable for military service, aged 25 to 60, who are deemed fit for military service, do not qualify for a deferment, and are not exempt through reservation.

Citizens aged 18 to 25 may be subject to mobilization in specific cases, including:

• Reserve officers;

• Individuals who have completed conscript military service.

In other cases, individuals aged 18 to 25 may voluntarily join the military by signing a contract for military service.