On June 11, Interior Minister Ihor Klymenko announced the formation of a working group aimed at establishing regulatory frameworks for civil firearm ownership in Ukraine. This initiative, shared via his Telegram channel, seeks to streamline the process of obtaining firearm permits.
Klymenko indicated that the group’s findings would be submitted to the relevant committee of the Verkhovna Rada, Ukraine’s parliament. During initial discussions, two primary issues were identified: the need for a clear and accessible procedure for obtaining firearm permits and the establishment of guidelines concerning responsibility and self-defense.
The legislative journey began on February 23, 2022, when the Verkhovna Rada passed the first reading of a bill concerning civil firearm circulation (Bill No. 5708), garnering support from 274 members of parliament.
In June 2023, Ukraine implemented a Unified Firearm Registry, simplifying the process for citizens to acquire firearm permits. This system allows individuals to submit their applications through the “Single Window for Citizens” or directly at gun shops, eliminating the need for police visits.
On August 20, 2024, the Verkhovna Rada adopted Bill No. 9538, which grants Ukrainian civilians the right to possess and use firearms and ammunition provided by the Ministry of Internal Affairs, aimed at countering armed aggression from Russia.
Ukraine is taking significant steps to regulate civil firearm ownership, with new legislation and a streamlined permitting process. The government's efforts reflect ongoing concerns about security amid external threats.