New Declaration Procedures for Military Personnel Introduced
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has submitted a draft law to the Verkhovna Rada introducing a unique declaration process for certain military personnel within the Security Forces. This bill includes provisions to postpone the submission of financial declarations for servicemen actively engaged in combat and defines specific deadlines for reporting.
The proposed amendments affect the Law of Ukraine "On Prevention of Corruption" and apply to members of the following forces:
- National Guard of Ukraine
- State Border Guard Service
- State Service of Special Communications and Information Protection
- State Guard Department
- Armed Forces of Ukraine
- State Special Transport Service
The changes also extend to special police units involved in combat operations.
Those in the specified categories must submit their declarations no later than 90 calendar days after the end or cancellation of martial law or their discharge from service. A distinct procedure is outlined for military personnel serving in other government agencies who are directly involved in fighting. For them, declarations must be filed within 90 calendar days following one of these events:
- the conclusion of martial law
- cessation of direct participation in combat
- release from service
Purpose Behind the Legislative Proposal
The initiative aims to maintain financial oversight over Security Forces members whose duties do not involve direct combat. It recognizes the challenges military service in wartime poses for timely declaration submissions. President Zelensky emphasized the importance of this measure, stating:
"I have approved the bill restoring declaration requirements for all employees of the Security Service of Ukraine."
This legislation gained urgency after the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine released new recordings linked to the "Carthage" case, implicating senior Security Service officials. The bill is designed to enhance transparency and accountability among military personnel, marking a significant step in combating corruption within government bodies.
If enacted, this law could profoundly reshape the military income declaration system in Ukraine by accommodating the realities of service during wartime. Clear deadlines and tailored reporting procedures are expected to ease administrative burdens on servicemen, allowing them to focus on their duties. Simultaneously, these changes will strengthen transparency and responsibility in the military sector, a critical factor in Ukraine's ongoing fight against corruption.
In addition to the proposed declaration rules for military personnel, President Zelensky has also addressed the role of the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) in recent high-profile cases. This includes the establishment of mandatory declarations for SBU staff, reflecting the government's commitment to transparency and accountability in security operations. For more insights on this legislative initiative and its implications for the SBU, read more about the mandatory declarations for SBU personnel.