In Ukraine, a draft law on alternative service based on religious beliefs is being prepared

In Kyiv, a law on alternative service is being developed. Photo: prikhodko.com.ua

The Ministry of Economy of Ukraine has prepared the first draft law "On Alternative Service." This was announced by the Head of the State Service for Ethnopolitics and Freedom of Conscience Viktor Yelensky in an interview with interfax.com.ua.

The current legislation on alternative service was adopted in 1991 and is designed exclusively for peacetime. The new document should create a mechanism for those who are ready to fulfill their duty to the state in a way other than participating in combat operations. The Head of GESS stated that this includes representatives of religious communities that have historically refused to serve with weapons.

The official claims that to prevent abuse, the bill provides for verification of the sincerity of convictions. According to him, following the recommendations of the European Court of Human Rights, the state has the right to assess the depth of religious views. The procedure will be approved by the Cabinet of Ministers, and psychologists, religious scholars, and representatives of religious organizations are planned to be included in the commissions.

As reported by SPJ, Yelensky announced a new law on alternative service for believers.

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