The Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine creates a working group to prepare a draft law on elections during wartime
Vice Speaker of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine, Oleksandr Kornienko, has headed the working group tasked with developing a law to regulate the conduct of elections under martial law. The law aims to ensure safe democratic elections, with trust maintained at the international level.
The initiation of the group’s creation was announced by Parliament’s head, Ruslan Stefanchuk, by signing the relevant order. The working group will include representatives from all factions and groups, as well as members of civil society and the Central Election Commission.
Stefanchuk noted that the group will work on adapting the Electoral Code to wartime conditions, which includes issues of military voting, voting by Ukrainians abroad, conducting elections in temporarily occupied territories, and involving international observers.
The creation of the law becomes relevant in light of former U.S. President Donald Trump’s statements about the necessity of holding elections in Ukraine. President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that he is always ready for elections, urging the United States to ensure security for their conduct.
Existing Ukrainian legislation does not allow for elections during martial law, so the developed law will be used only as a one-time measure.
| Aspects of the electoral process | Features during wartime |
|---|---|
| Voting by military personnel | Special procedures to ensure voting rights |
| Voting by Ukrainians abroad | Considering security and logistical conditions |
| Conducting elections in occupied territories | Determining legal conditions and ensuring security |
| Involvement of international observers | Ensuring observation and trust |
