Ukraine Creates Military Ombudsman Office to Protect Soldiers' Rights

Ukraine Establishes Military Ombudsman Office to Protect Soldiers' Rights KYIV, Ukraine (December 29, 2024)—Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced the creation of a new military ombudsman institution, a move designed to safeguard the rights of soldiers and their families. The announcement followed requests from military personnel and extensive consultations with various stakeholders. "There was a request from our military—and this is an objective need—for the creation of a special institution of a military ombudsman," President Zelenskyy stated in a video address. "We need a person capable of protecting the rights of our soldiers, and a system that allows the ombudsman, along with the Ministry of Defence and others, to truly influence the situation and provide real help to the soldiers and families of our soldiers." Zelenskyy's announcement included the appointment of a presidential envoy to begin the process of establishing the office. Further details, including the ombudsman's powers and funding, will be outlined in a forthcoming bill to be developed in cooperation with the Ministry of Defence and human rights organizations. The decree appointing the envoy will be published tomorrow. The establishment of the military ombudsman represents a significant step towards improving the support and protection provided to Ukrainian servicemen and their families.