President Zelensky announced the selection of a candidate for the new role of Military Ombudsman, which will be officially revealed in a presidential decree on Dec. 30. This decision comes after calls for the appointment of a Military Ombudsman in Ukraine, in order to ensure that soldiers have a mechanism to report violations of their rights. The Defense Ministry stated that the ombudsman will be responsible for considering appeals and complaints of servicemen, providing legal assistance, conducting inspections, and investigating rights violations. The need for a military ombudsman has become more urgent following reports of abuse in the 211th Pontoon Bridge Brigade in Ukraine.
The recent incidents in the 211th Pontoon Bridge Brigade have garnered widespread criticism, with Senior Lieutenant Vladyslav Pastukh being accused of abusing authority and mistreating subordinates. Additionally, Colonel Oleh Poberezhniuk, the godfather of Pastukh, was detained for failing to address abuse and torture allegations involving his subordinates. President Zelensky emphasized the importance of creating the position of a Military Ombudsman to protect the rights of military personnel. The new commissioner will work with the human rights community and the Ministry of Defense to draft a corresponding bill and establish the necessary institutional framework for the ombudsman’s operation.
President Zelensky reiterated the need for a Military Ombudsman in his address, stating that it is an “objective necessity” to have a person who can effectively defend the rights of Ukrainian soldiers. The ombudsman’s role will begin shortly, with the expectation that their work will commence in the new year. While the position of military ombudsman is new to Ukraine, other European countries like Norway, Austria, Czechia, Belgium, and Sweden have long had ombudsmen to oversee the rights of military personnel. The creation of the position in Ukraine reflects a commitment to upholding the rights and welfare of soldiers in the country.
The Ukrainian platoon commander from the 211th Pontoon Bridge Brigade has been charged with abuse of authority, specifically accused of beating and humiliating subordinates. This case further underscores the importance of having a Military Ombudsman to address and prevent such instances of misconduct within the military. The government’s swift action in appointing a candidate for the ombudsman position demonstrates a proactive approach to addressing issues of abuse and ensuring accountability within the armed forces.
In response to the recent incidents and outcry for accountability, the government plans to collaborate with the new Military Ombudsman, the human rights community, and the Ministry of Defense to develop a bill that will outline the responsibilities and functions of the ombudsman. By establishing an institutional framework for the ombudsman’s operation, Ukraine aims to strengthen oversight and protection of the rights of military personnel. The creation of the Military Ombudsman position reflects a commitment to promoting transparency, accountability, and respect for human rights within the Ukrainian military.
Overall, the appointment of a Military Ombudsman in Ukraine represents a significant step towards enhancing accountability and safeguarding the rights of soldiers. The move follows reports of abuse and misconduct within the military, particularly in the 211th Pontoon Bridge Brigade. With the support of President Zelensky and collaboration with relevant stakeholders, the new ombudsman will play a crucial role in investigating violations, providing legal assistance, and ensuring that the rights of military personnel are respected and upheld. As Ukraine prepares to establish the institutional framework for the ombudsman’s operation, it signals a commitment to improving oversight and promoting a culture of respect and accountability within the armed forces.
