On October 21st, 2024, Kyiv played host to a high-level forum dedicated to tackling the critical issue of discrimination and hate crimes in Ukraine. This crucial event brought together key players in human rights protection, including government officials, representatives from international and nongovernmental organizations, and legal experts. The focus was on developing strategies to strengthen human rights safeguards in the country.
Prominent speakers included First Deputy Speaker of the Verkhovna Rada, Oleksandr Kornienko, and several Members of Parliament who emphasized the urgent need to align Ukrainian legislation with European human rights standards. Representatives from the Office of the Ombudsperson, the Ministry of Internal Affairs, and the Ministry of Justice also participated, highlighting the collaborative effort to address this complex issue.
The forum’s opening address was delivered by Maceij Janczak, Head of the Council of Europe Office in Ukraine. Expressing gratitude to all partners, he stressed the Council of Europe’s unwavering commitment to promoting non-discrimination and upholding European standards in this domain. Citing the European Commission against Racism and Intolerance’s 2020 findings, Mr. Janczak highlighted the need to further strengthen Ukrainian criminal law for effective prosecution of hate crimes and discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. He underlined the importance of rectifying these shortcomings and creating a more inclusive legal framework that guarantees protection for all members of society.
Organized through a joint initiative of the European Union and the Council of Europe – “Support for the Implementation of European Standards in Combating Discrimination and the Rights of National Minorities in Ukraine” – the forum was implemented in collaboration with the Office of the Verkhovna Rada Commissioner for Human Rights and Gender Stream, a public organization.
A central point of discussion was the review of Bill No. 5488, proposing key amendments to the Criminal Code of Ukraine aimed at enhancing penalties for hate crimes. This legislation seeks to provide greater protection to vulnerable groups, including national minorities, the Roma community, the LGBTQI+ community, people with disabilities, and other marginalized populations.
First Deputy Speaker Kornienko underscored the urgency of passing this bill, asserting its importance for Ukraine’s Eurointegration and the strengthening of democracy. He called for zero tolerance towards hate speech targeting vulnerable groups, emphasizing the need to safeguard their safety and dignity.
The passage of Bill No. 5488 will provide a powerful tool for combating discrimination, improving the investigation of hate crimes, and effectively protecting the rights of vulnerable populations. The forum served as a powerful reminder of Ukraine’s commitment to implement legal reforms that align with its international obligations and ensure the protection of human rights for all citizens.