Kyiv has notified the European Council that the rights and freedoms of Ukrainians may be restricted under martial law as Ukraine moves to expand military conscription. The Ministry of Justice has updated a list of rights and freedoms of the Ukrainian people and informed the European Council of the update, stating that under martial law, the military leadership has the right to restrict the freedom of movement and confiscate property for state needs. Ukraine has been under martial law since February 2022, with temporary restrictions on constitutional rights in place. President Zelenskyy recently signed a law lowering the minimum conscription age to 25 to bolster the country’s army, and the government is considering further lowering the mobilisation age.
Under martial law, men in Ukraine are first drafted into military service and can later be mobilised to fight by the government. Restrictions also prohibit men aged 18 to 60 from leaving the country without a health exemption. Ukraine is in need of additional troops to bolster forces in the south and east where Russia is advancing. To reverse the drain of soldiers, the government announced that men of conscription age cannot renew passports from outside Ukraine, requiring them to replace them within the country. Millions of Ukrainians have fled the country since Russia’s invasion, with a significant number living in EU countries, including 860,000 men aged 18 or older.
The move to expand military conscription under martial law comes as Ukraine faces ongoing aggression from Russia and a need to strengthen its armed forces. With millions of Ukrainians having fled the country since the invasion, the government is taking steps to ensure that men of conscription age are available to serve in the military. By lowering the minimum conscription age and restricting passport renewals for certain age groups, Ukraine aims to bolster its army and strengthen its defense capabilities. These measures reflect the urgent need to address security challenges and protect the country’s sovereignty in the face of continued threats.
The impact of martial law on the rights and freedoms of Ukrainians is a significant development that highlights the challenges faced by the country in the current conflict. The ability of the military leadership to restrict movement and confiscate property under martial law raises concerns about the potential infringement of civil liberties. However, these measures are deemed necessary to address security concerns and respond to the ongoing military threat posed by Russia. The decision to expand military conscription and apply restrictions on passport renewals underscores the government’s determination to strengthen the country’s defenses and ensure that it has the resources needed to defend against external aggression.
The situation in Ukraine, with millions of citizens displaced and the country facing ongoing military conflict, underscores the need for strong defense capabilities and measures to protect national security. The European Council has been informed of the changes to rights and freedoms under martial law, indicating the importance of international awareness and oversight of Ukraine’s actions. With Russia’s continued aggression and the need for additional troops, it is crucial for Ukraine to take steps to bolster its armed forces and ensure that it can effectively defend its territory. The impact of martial law on civil liberties is a complex issue that must be balanced with the need to address security threats and protect the country’s sovereignty.
In conclusion, the decision to expand military conscription and apply restrictions under martial law reflects the challenges faced by Ukraine in the current conflict. The country’s efforts to strengthen its defenses and address security concerns are essential to safeguarding its sovereignty and protecting its citizens. The impact on rights and freedoms must be carefully considered in the context of national security needs and the ongoing military threat from Russia. By taking steps to bolster its armed forces and ensure that men of conscription age are available for service, Ukraine demonstrates its commitment to defending itself against external aggression and preserving its independence. The international community plays a crucial role in supporting Ukraine during this challenging time and ensuring that its actions are in line with international norms and standards.
