In the context of human rights, service members remain one of the most vulnerable groups in Ukraine. Issues such as rotation, combat pay, discharge from military service, medical board evaluations and rehabilitation, and communication between military units and the families of missing persons and prisoners of war - all require legislative reform. Additionally, there is a need to modernise internal personnel management practices within military structures to safeguard the rights of military personnel.
What is the mandate of the newly appointed Presidential Commissioner for the Protection of the Rights of Military Personnel and Their Families concerning these issues? What are the most frequent concerns raised by service members and defenders' families, and why do existing state institutions often fall short in addressing them effectively? What structural reforms are most urgently required to protect military personnel’s rights? Should Ukraine establish a distinct military justice system — and if so, what should it entail? Which challenges are likely to remain pressing even in the post-war period?
Speaker:
Olha Reshetylova, Presidential Commissioner for the Protection of the Rights of Military Personnel and Their Families
Moderator:
Diana Butsko, Hromadske reporter
The vulnerability of servicemembers, their traumatic experiences, and the challenges of reintegrating into civilian life are explored in the documentary Daddy’s Lullaby by Ukrainian director Lesia Diak, which will be screened in the Special Events section on June 11 at Zhovten Cinema and on June 12 at KINO42.
