The Ukrainian Parliament has taken a significant step by approving the foundational reading of a bill aimed at reinstating competitive selection processes for public service roles. This legislative move is part of the broader Ukraine Facility program, which seeks to align the country’s governance practices with European Union standards.
Government document No. 13478-1 received support from 236 members of Parliament during its initial reading. According to MP Shuliak, the proposed regulations will facilitate career advancement and prioritize employment opportunities for veterans, while also ensuring adherence to meritocratic principles.
The key provisions of the bill include:
- Restoration of competitive selection for public service positions and local government roles, which had been filled without selection during the state of war;
- Implementation of preferential hiring rights for war veterans, provided they possess equal professional qualifications compared to other candidates;
- Establishment of career advancement mechanisms, allowing for transfers to higher positions within a year following excellent performance evaluations and internal competitions;
- Authorization of non-competitive appointments in areas experiencing active conflict or those temporarily occupied by Russia;
- Creation of a personnel reserve and adaptation programs for civil servants in categories “B” and “C.”
The transition back to competitive selection procedures is set to occur gradually, with implementation planned from June to September 2026 for various categories of positions. Additionally, management will have a three-month period to extend the contracts of employees previously appointed without competition, contingent upon the worker’s consent, completion of a special verification process, and performance evaluations within the same governmental body.
The Ukrainian Parliament has approved a bill to restore competitive selection for public service roles, aligning with EU standards and prioritizing veterans. The implementation will occur gradually between 2026 and 2027.