The Ukrainian Parliament has registered a bill aimed at enhancing criminal liability for unlawful detention carried out by state representatives, particularly focusing on personnel from military recruitment centers. The proposed legislation, known as Bill No. 15303, seeks to address concerns regarding the treatment of individuals during mobilization efforts.
This bill introduces a new provision to Article 146-1 of the Ukrainian Criminal Code, titled “Enforced Disappearance.” It expands the definition of “state representatives” to include officials acting with the consent or support of government authorities at both national and local levels.
Under the new legislation, unlawful detention during mobilization activities would incur criminal penalties. Specifically, the bill prohibits the forced confinement of individuals in military facilities, collection points, or military units. Additionally, it addresses the illegal confiscation of mobile phones and other means of communication, proposing a prison sentence of five to seven years for such actions.
The bill also proposes accountability for leaders who facilitate unlawful detentions. Those found responsible could face imprisonment ranging from five to eight years. Notably, the execution of orders leading to such detentions would not exempt individuals from criminal liability.
Aggravating Circumstances
Furthermore, the legislation outlines aggravating circumstances. If the aforementioned actions are committed against minors, multiple individuals, or involve a group acting in concert or with the use of life-threatening violence, the penalties would increase to between seven and twelve years of imprisonment.
Bill Author
The bill is authored by Georgiy Mazurashu, a member of the ruling Servant of the People party. He has previously introduced several controversial proposals in the Parliament, including measures targeting LGBTQ+ advocacy and stricter penalties for soldiers abandoning their posts. Earlier this year, he also suggested criminalizing public criticism of the government on social media.
In related developments, military ombudsman Olha Reshetylova recently reported that approximately 7% of those mobilized had valid deferments that were overlooked by military recruitment centers. This issue has raised concerns about the quality of military medical commissions and the documentation process for conscripts.
Additionally, MP Oleksandr Fedienko indicated that discussions are ongoing regarding the establishment of a “draft dodger registry” in Ukraine. This proposal includes the potential reinstatement of measures to block bank accounts and driver’s licenses for men of conscription age who evade mobilization.
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The Ukrainian Parliament is considering a bill that would impose stricter penalties for unlawful detentions during mobilization, particularly targeting state officials. The proposed legislation aims to enhance accountability and address concerns regarding the treatment of individuals during military recruitment processes.