Zelensky signs law introducing criminal liability for antisemitism

Jewish kippah. Photo: www.dw.com

On April 14, 2026, President Volodymyr Zelensky signed a law introducing criminal penalties for antisemitism. The document amends Article 161 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine and establishes clear sanctions for such offenses.

The new provisions envisage fines ranging from 200 to 500 non-taxable minimum incomes or restriction of liberty for up to five years. Courts may also impose prison sentences of up to three years, along with a ban on holding certain positions.

In cases where antisemitic acts are accompanied by violence, deception, or threats, or are committed by an official, the penalties are tougher. Such offenses carry fines of 500 to 1,000 non-taxable minimums or imprisonment for a term of two to five years.

The maximum penalty – five to eight years in prison – applies to crimes committed by an organized group or those that result in serious consequences.

“The draft law was developed to bring the provisions of the Criminal Code of Ukraine into line with the law ‘On Preventing and Combating Antisemitism in Ukraine,’” the explanatory note states.

Earlier, the UOJ reported that the authorities are creating a new body to combat antisemitism, a move opposed by Jewish groups.

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