Ukrainian Law on Social Protection for Chernobyl Disaster Victims
The Ukrainian legislation concerning the social status and support for individuals affected by the Chernobyl disaster grants eligible workers an extra paid leave of 14 working days (16 calendar days) annually. This entitlement applies to those classified under categories 1 and 2 of affected persons, as well as one parent of a child with a disability linked to the Chernobyl catastrophe. The additional leave must be provided by the employee’s primary employer.
How to Apply for the Additional Leave
To secure funding for these leave benefits, employers are required to submit specific documentation to the Pension Fund of Ukraine by October 31 at the latest. The necessary paperwork includes:
- Company data passport,
- Employee lists,
- Leave schedules,
- Cost calculations.
The company data passport contains detailed information about the organization, the number of affected employees by category, and other relevant details.
This passport’s format was established by the Ministry of Social Policy, Family, and Unity of Ukraine’s order dated March 29, 2023, No. 110-N. Should any changes occur—such as company name or employee lists—employers must notify the Pension Fund within 20 days of the following month. Employee lists must include:
- Full name,
- Category of the affected person,
- Certificate series and number (if applicable),
- Residence address,
- Taxpayer identification number or Ukrainian passport series and number.
Leave schedules are prepared following company-specific formats, specifying the dates of additional leave for each employee. Expense calculations must show the total cost of leave payments, based on the average daily wage and the number of leave days. The legal framework governing these leave entitlements is outlined in the Law of Ukraine "On the Status and Social Protection of Citizens Affected by the Chernobyl Disaster." The procedure for utilizing state budget funds is regulated by the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine’s Resolution No. 936 dated September 20, 2005.
This legislation and its implementing procedures play a crucial role in safeguarding the rights and welfare of those impacted by the Chernobyl disaster. Proper funding ensures these individuals can access the additional rest they deserve, which may contribute significantly to improving their mental and physical well-being after enduring radiation exposure. Such support reflects Ukraine’s ongoing commitment to addressing the long-term consequences of one of the world’s worst nuclear accidents.