Ukraine Restricts Declarants as December Deadline for Disability Registration Approaches
Ukraine’s mobilization regulations may see significant changes in 2025, with increased fines for evasion becoming a possibility, according to legal expert Roman Simutin.
Simutin suggests that while changes to current legislation wouldn’t instantaneously spike fines, the introduction of fines in absentia and automatic account blocking for enforcement proceedings could transform the process into a highly efficient – “conveyor belt” – system of penalization.
Automated Fines Loom
Should these amendments come into law, the head of the Territorial Center for Recruitment and Social Support (TCC) may no longer be obligated to summon individuals for hearings concerning fines.
“There may be no such obligation. The prospect of appealing such a fine will be zero,” Simutin explains.
He further outlines a potential scenario: “Automatic blocking and debiting of funds is expected. After the fine is sent to the executive service, this service will immediately block the accounts and write off the funds. There are attempts to introduce this, the question is being raised.”
Implications for Disability Deferments
Simutin paints a concerning picture for those seeking disability-related deferments from mobilization. Due to the liquidation of the Medical and Social Expertise Commission (MSEC) from January 1, 2025, obtaining a disability certification will be practically impossible until May 2025, when newly created expert teams begin functioning.
“This means that men liable for military service will not be able to receive a deferment from mobilization in connection with the constant care of sick family members with group I or II disabilities if their sick relatives did not have time to register their disability through MSEC by December 31, ” warns Simutin.
The implications for those relying on disability deferments are significant, highlighting a potential gap in the support system for families grappling with serious health concerns amidst the ongoing conflict.
What are the potential consequences of the liquidation of the Medical and Social Expertise Commission for Ukrainian men with disabilities or those caring for family members with disabilities?
**Host:** Joining us today is legal expert Roman Simutin to discuss the potential changes to Ukraine’s mobilization regulations. Roman, you’ve expressed concern about the implications of these changes, particularly regarding the automation of fines for evasion. Can you elaborate on what this means for Ukrainian citizens?
**Simutin:** The proposed changes could transform the system of fines into a highly efficient, almost impersonal, process. Instead of individual hearings, fines could be issued in absentia, with accounts automatically blocked and funds debited. While this might seem efficient, it raises serious concerns about due process and the ability to contest unfair fines.
**Host:** This brings us to the issue of disability deferments. It seems these changes coincide with the liquidation of the Medical and Social Expertise Commission, making it incredibly difficult for individuals with disabilities or those caring for family members with disabilities to obtain the necessary documentation. How do you see this impacting vulnerable populations?
**Simutin:** This creates a very real and alarming gap in the support system for families with disabilities. Without the MSEC, obtaining disability certification will be practically impossible until May 2025. This means men caring for severely disabled relatives could be mobilized even if they are the primary caregivers.
**Host:** Some might argue that these measures are necessary during a time of war. What’s your response to that?
**Simutin:** I understand the need for strong mobilization efforts, but these changes seem to prioritize efficiency over fairness and due process. They disproportionately impact the most vulnerable and raise serious ethical questions about the balance between national security and protecting the rights of citizens.
**Host:** Roman, thank you for sharing your insights. This is clearly a complex and sensitive issue with far-reaching consequences. Ultimately, we must ask ourselves: where does national security end and individual rights begin? What are the long-term implications of these changes on Ukrainian society?
