The Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine in the first reading was supported by the Bill No. 13037, which provides for the strengthening of counteraction to sexual harassment, discrimination and other forms of domestic violence in the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
According to MP Yaroslav Zheleznyak, 274 MPs voted in favor.
The document is proposed to expand the concept of military discipline and to clearly consolidate the obligation of each serviceman to prevent any manifestations of discrimination, including verbal and non-verbal actions. Commanders, in turn, will be obliged to respond immediately to offenses against sexual freedom and inviolability.
It is also envisaged that servicemen will be able to file complaints and applications for discrimination not only on the service vertical, but also directly to the law enforcement agencies, pre -trial investigation or other state structures - even with violation of subordination requirements.
Another novelty is the prohibition of disciplinary liability of a serviceman only because of the fact of notification of discrimination or violence.
A new basis for the removal of the serviceman from the performance of duties is being introduced separately - if his or her actions or omissions have contributed to the commission of an offense against sexual freedom or inviolability.
The document also provides an investigation to establish the causes and conditions that contributed to the commission of such offenses.
More than 70,000 women serve in the Armed Forces of Ukraine today. The bill aims to strengthen their protection and increase the overall level of security and military discipline.
