Rada introduces gender equality norms into Disciplinary Statute of Armed Forces

The Verkhovna Rada has adopted a draft law that will introduce gender equality norms into the Disciplinary Statute of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

Oleksii Honcharenko, a Member of Parliament from the European Solidarity faction, broadcast the meeting at which the decision was made on his YouTube channel, the Ukrainian News agency reports.

A total of 274 parliamentarians voted for bill No. 13037 as a basis, with the minimum required 226.

A new system of responding to offenses related to gender discrimination, sexual harassment, and violation of sexual integrity in the Armed Forces is envisaged.

In particular, the obligation of servicemen to immediately inform the responsible authorities in case of detection of such cases is introduced.

The draft law, among other things, establishes:

• a new basis for removing a serviceman from duty in the event of his involvement in offenses against sexual freedom;
• mandatory participation of specialized representatives in internal investigation commissions;
• guarantees of protection for servicemen who report cases of harassment or discrimination.

As the Ukrainian News agency earlier reported, on May 23, 2024, the Verkhovna Rada introduced liability for sexual harassment.