Inspection Launched at Uzhhorod's Recruitment and Social Support Center
Ukraine's Defense Forces have initiated an inspection of the Uzhhorod District Territorial Center for Recruitment and Social Support (RTCK and SP). This action follows a report by the Ukrainian Parliament's Commissioner for Human Rights, Dmytro Lubinets, detailing serious violations at the facility. A special commission will investigate the alleged offenses, with its findings to be forwarded to law enforcement agencies.
According to Lubinets, his representative in the Zakarpattia region, Andriy Kryuchkov, conducted a monitoring visit to the center. The visit uncovered appalling, unsanitary conditions where men were allegedly held for weeks without justification, while their phones and documents were confiscated. The reported living conditions included:
- A few plates for dozens of people,
- Only one shower and toilet,
- A complete lack of bedding.
Kyrylo Budanov, Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine, stated that the command of the 'West' Operational Command emphasizes a principle of zero tolerance for any human rights abuses, official negligence, or overreach by the leadership and staff of recruitment centers. He also noted that:
“One should not expect miracles from potential changes in the sphere of mobilization and the work of territorial recruitment centers (TCC). According to him, the essence of mobilization will remain the same as long as the war continues.” - Kyrylo Budanov
This investigation highlights ongoing challenges within Ukraine's mobilization system as the nation continues its defense against Russian aggression. Information regarding the conditions at the Uzhhorod RTCK and SP was published by the 'West' Operational Command on April 4, 2026, and cited by the resource 'Glavcom'.
The situation underscores the critical importance of upholding human rights during wartime mobilization in Ukraine. The inspection, launched after the discovery of severe violations, could influence future reforms within the system of territorial recruitment centers. Public trust in state institutions depends on transparency and accountability, making it vital for the investigation's results to be made public and for those responsible to be held accountable.
In light of the alarming findings at the Uzhhorod recruitment center, further scrutiny is warranted regarding the systemic issues within Ukraine's recruitment practices. Recent reports, including an investigation by the Ukrainian Ombudsman Dmytro Lubinets, reveal similar concerns about the treatment of individuals at these facilities. For more details on the seized documents and the unsanitary conditions uncovered, refer to the full report here.