On Wednesday, September 17, the Parliament approved the military ombudsman law in the second reading.
The bill was supported by 283 deputies, while 18 abstained and another 18 did not vote.
The new law stipulates that the military ombudsman will oversee the rights of military personnel, reservists, and individuals involved in territorial defense and combat actions, including volunteers and law enforcement officers.
The primary aim of the ombudsman will be to identify rights violations, investigate their causes, and propose solutions. He will have the authority to formulate conclusions and recommendations for commanders and other authorities, review complaints, and conduct inspections. The ombudsman can request any necessary information, including restricted data, and will not disclose personal information of applicants without their consent.
On May 8, President Volodymyr Zelensky submitted this bill to the Parliament, labeling it urgent.
According to the bill, the president will appoint the military ombudsman and their deputies. Additionally, an Office of the Military Ombudsman will be established to assist in ensuring civilian oversight in the security and defense sector.
Moreover, the procedure for submitting and reviewing soldiers' complaints and conducting inspections in military units will be outlined.
The law was initially adopted on June 3, 2025, after which it was revised.
«I thank the members of Parliament for passing the Military Ombudsman Law initiated by President Volodymyr Zelensky. We are creating a new institution to protect the rights of Ukrainian soldiers, — wrote Defense Minister Denys Shmyhal. — This is a step toward justice and enhancing our military capabilities.
The military ombudsman will operate under the President of Ukraine and implement civilian oversight in the security sector. They will accept complaints, conduct inspections in military units, and prepare reports.
«The Ministry of Defense will fully support the work of the Military Ombudsman. We share common values and goals — a strong and free Ukraine», — emphasized Denys Shmyhal.
