Ukraine is establishing a military ombudsman under the new Central Directorate for the Protection of Servicemembers’ Rights within the Defense Ministry.
Ukrainian soldiers have been voicing their concerns and frustrations regarding a range of problems they face, with rotation and demobilization being among the most pressing issues.
Subordinate to the Defense Minister, the Directorate will safeguard military rights like leave provisions, social guarantees, and medical care. It will respond to complaints, investigate violations such as lack of provisions, leave denial, commander abuses, medical issues, social guarantee breaches, and gender inequality cases.
“This provides a comprehensive approach to protecting soldiers’ and families’ rights through inspections and measures to restore violated rights,” Defense Minister Rustem Umerov stated.
The Directorate’s model draws from an effective military ombudsman in countries like Sweden, where the institution has operated for over 110 years, as well as Norway, Austria, Germany, Canada, Ireland, the Czech Republic, and Belgium.
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