Draft bill #13028 of February 19, 2025 

Cosponsors: a group of four MPs from the faction Servant of the People and the Restoration of Ukraine group with Antonina Slavytska as the first signatory 

Status: sent for review to the Committee on Social Policy and Veterans’ Rights Protection 

Who is affected: veterans and their family members 

Summary: 

  • veterans will be provided with a discount of at least 50% on mandatory contributions for training and examinations to work as: 
    • lawyers 
    • bankruptcy trustees 
    • notaries 
    • private executors 
    • appraisers 
  • veterans will also have the right to free retraining for the jobs listed above 
  • it will not be allowed to suspend the veterans’ right to engage in these activities if they have not undergone retraining, except for cases where they have signed a written refusal to undergo free retraining. 

What is right: The proposed benefits are necessary for supporting veterans during their reintegration into civilian life. They will help reduce the cost of the acquisition of a new profession or resuming a career, promote social adaptation, and provide equal development opportunities. Moreover, free retraining will stimulate professional growth and help veterans remain competitive in the labor market. 

What is wrong: 

Social adaptation alone is not sufficient for the full adaptation of veterans, as their needs are much more diverse. A comprehensive state policy for veterans is necessary for effective support. 

Alternative solution: 

To develop a comprehensive veteran policy to ensure social protection, rehabilitation, and support for veterans and their families. It should encompass a wide range of issues, including medical assistance, psychological support, social adaptation, employment, and education. Furthermore, it should not only improve the living conditions of veterans but also facilitate their return to active social life, which is crucial for the country’s development. 

How to help the legislator: proposals concerning the draft bill can be sent to the Committee of the Verkhovna Rada on Social Policy and Veterans’ Rights Protection. 

Additional information: 

  • article by Yuliia Pietsko: No place for veterans? How the state policy on veterans in Ukraine should look like 
  • column by Oksana Zabolotna: Don’t turn veterans into the destitute 
  • Points Considered podcast: (Un)protected defenders: how does the state care for the military, and what is wrong with the Ministry of Veterans Affairs?