In response to massive complaints about arbitrariness in the Military Medical Center and abuse during mobilization, a bill has been developed in Ukraine that provides for radical changes in the procedure for passing military medical commissions (MMCs) and increasing the responsibility of military medical center employees.
According to the text of the document, three key innovations are proposed that should change the rules of the game in military commissions and bring order to the mobilization accounting system.
1. Video recording of VLK — as a safeguard against abuse
One of the main innovations is the introduction of mandatory video recording of the entire procedure for passing the VLK for mobilized and contract soldiers. The recording must be continuous, kept for at least one year and attached to the personal file. Upon request, the mobilized person, law enforcement agencies or the court will be able to obtain it.
This step aims to ensure transparency and protect the rights of citizens, who often complain about pressure, humiliation, or bias on the part of medical commissions.
2. Criminal liability for CCC employees
The bill also provides for the creation of a new Article 337-1 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine, which establishes a penalty of imprisonment for a term of 5 to 10 years for abuse of power or official authority by employees of the CCC, if their actions are accompanied by violence, threats, or humiliation.
This will be a serious signal to all employees of military centers who allowed themselves to violate the rights of conscripts.
3. Punishment for manipulation of the VLK
Another important provision is the criminalization of fraud during the military service. The draft law supplements the Criminal Code of Ukraine with Article 337-2, which provides for 5 to 8 years of imprisonment for deliberate violation of the military service procedure, which led to illegal conscription or dismissal from service.
This applies to both employees who “help” avoid service for money and those who contribute to the mobilization of individuals unfit for service.
The bill has yet to be considered by parliament, but has already sparked active discussion in society. The main message is that the CCC and VLK system should operate honestly, transparently, and without degrading citizens.
