Cabinet resolution #1171 of October 15, 2024 

Status: in effect since October 16, 2024 

Decision-maker: Cabinet of Ministers 

Who is affected: individuals with disabilities caused by war, families of fallen defenders of Ukraine, internally displaced persons, executive offices of local administrations responsible for veteran policy, and administrative services centers 

Summary: 

  • to obtain the status of a person with a disability caused by war or the status of a family member of a fallen defender of Ukraine, the applicant can submit an application with the required documents attached (the list and templates of the applications are included in the text of the resolution): 
    • in person at their registered place of residence or at the actual place of residence (for internally displaced persons) to the executive offices of local administrations responsible for veteran policy 
    • by mail via postal services 
    • at the administrative services center 
    • via the Diia portal 
  • if some originals or copies of documents are lacking, they will be requested from the relevant authorized state bodies or individuals. That is, if a person lacks certain documents required for the application submission, they do not need to obtain and submit them on their own: state bodies will request these documents via their inter-agency channels. 

What is right: 

  • the resolution clarifies the procedures for obtaining social guarantees for internally displaced persons 
  • for veterans and their family members, it will be easier to obtain the required documents to confirm their status and benefits. If they do not have all documents at hand, authorities can obtain them independently via inter-agency channels. This reduces bureaucratic burdens on veterans and their families and facilitates access to social guarantees. 

What is wrong: some bureaucratic procedures for veterans are simplified, but that is not enough to provide them with comprehensive support. A unified state policy is required that will address not only the current needs of veterans but also foster respect for their deeds and ensure convenient services for them and their families. 

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. 

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?