New State Award for Communities Established by President Zelenskyy

"Community-Savior" Decoration

According to Главком: On June 11, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy signed Decree No. 491/2026, creating a new state honor called the "Community-Savior" award. This recognition is designed for territorial communities that provide significant support to people living near the front lines and help strengthen the country's defense capabilities. It marks a formal way to acknowledge local efforts during wartime.

The "Community-Savior" award will be given to territorial communities that have made substantial contributions to protecting Ukraine's independence and sovereignty. Nominations for this honor can be submitted by:

• The Cabinet of Ministers,
• Regional state administrations and the Kyiv city state or military administration.

Importantly, no community can receive this award more than once.

Honored communities will receive a special statuette, a commemorative plaque, and a case. The award features two hands holding a stylized heart on a cylindrical base engraved with the words "Community-Savior." The back of the statuette will list the community's full name, the award number, and the year it was granted. The Cabinet of Ministers and the State Administration of Affairs have been tasked with producing the awards, plaques, and cases, as well as arranging their funding. The award may be presented by the President of Ukraine or by officials he authorizes.

Criteria for Receiving the Award

Eligibility criteria include:

• Providing aid to residents of front-line areas,
• Supporting Ukraine's defense forces,
• Contributing to strengthening the nation's defense capabilities,
• Helping protect Ukraine's independence and sovereignty.

The introduction of the "Community-Savior" award represents an important step in recognizing the efforts of territorial communities during the war and their role in assisting populations in conflict-affected regions. This honor not only highlights the value of local initiatives in bolstering defense but also encourages other communities to become more actively involved in supporting the country during this challenging period. As a result, the new award may serve as a symbol of unity and solidarity among Ukrainian communities in the fight for independence.

As communities across Ukraine continue to demonstrate their resilience and commitment during these challenging times, the establishment of the "Community-Savior" award highlights the importance of recognizing local efforts. Similar to the recent distinction awarded to European municipalities, this new honor aims to inspire further contributions toward national defense and community support.