In Ukraine, people with disabilities have the right to deferment from conscription, and this norm remains in effect even in wartime. However, there are specific situations in which mobilization of people with disabilities can become a reality. Let's figure out when exactly this is possible.
Can people with disabilities be mobilized?
Mobilization of people with disabilities in Ukraine, regardless of group, is generally prohibited. The law clearly states that if the disability is confirmed by appropriate medical reports and a deferral has been issued, such people cannot be drafted into the army.
But there is an important clarification: mobilization of persons with disabilities of group 3 is possible if this person voluntarily signed a contract with the Armed Forces of Ukraine. In addition, their illness must not be so serious as to limit the ability to perform their duties in the service.
Thus, the only way for a disabled person to join the army is to become a contract soldier, where his diagnosis will be recognized as compatible with military service.
Do I need to go to the military registration and enlistment office with a disability?
If the disability was established after February 24, 2022, citizens must undergo a re-commission and confirm their diagnosis. However, there are exceptions. If the disability was obtained as a result of:
- absence of a foot, hand, limb or paired organ;
- changes in disability group;
- serious mental illnesses, cerebral palsy, oncology or intellectual disabilities;
- military service;
then confirmation of the diagnosis is usually not required. Also, disabled people of group 1 do not need to undergo re-commissioning, since this group is assigned for serious diseases that are difficult to fake.
When is mobilization of a disabled person possible?
It should be noted that the mobilization of persons with disabilities is prohibited, however, there are two situations when such a person may end up at the front:
- Unofficial deferment . Disability does not automatically grant a deferment from service. Men with disabilities must apply to a territorial recruiting center (TCC) or register through the Reserve+ app. If they ignore this process and do not issue an official deferment, they may be drafted into the army.
- Disability not confirmed . After the elimination of the MSEK and the introduction of medical expert groups, a situation is possible when medical specialists do not recognize disability during the re-examination. In this case, the person falls into the category of conscripts.
Therefore, even if a person has a disability, they must follow all procedures to avoid mobilization. Lack of documents, confirmation of disability, or deferment can lead to unexpected conscription.
