The Ukrainian Parliament has passed a significant bill aimed at enhancing opportunities for veterans who have been injured or disabled while defending the country. On February 24, lawmakers approved Bill No. 14194, which exempts these veterans from physical fitness assessments required for service in the National Police.
This legislative decision received support from 253 members of Parliament during a session broadcasted live. The bill modifies Article 50 of the Law of Ukraine on the National Police, specifically addressing the evaluation of candidates seeking to join the police force.
According to the Parliament’s press service, the new provisions will apply to individuals who have served in various law enforcement and military roles, including the Armed Forces, and have sustained injuries or illnesses during their service. The specific positions exempt from physical fitness tests will be determined by the Ministry of Internal Affairs.
The initiative is expected to facilitate job placements for war veterans and individuals with special merits to the state, allowing for the effective utilization of their skills and experience gained during their service.
Interior Minister Ihor Klymenko emphasized that the decision reflects a commitment to fairness, noting that the existing selection process did not adequately consider the physical capabilities of those who have served on the front lines. He stated, “Combat experience, resilience, and responsibility are invaluable to the security system. This is how EU and NATO countries operate. Veteran experience should continue to contribute to the nation’s safety, and our goal is to create favorable conditions for this.”
Previously, Ukraine launched a pilot project titled “On Experience,” which aims to involve military personnel and veterans in instructional roles to enhance the training quality of the Armed Forces.
The Ukrainian Parliament has enacted a law to facilitate the integration of injured veterans into the National Police, exempting them from physical fitness tests. This move aims to leverage their unique skills and experiences while promoting fairness in the recruitment process.