The European Commission published its annual report on enlargement, where it assessed Ukraine's progress on its way to the EU. A separate report deals in particular with the functioning of democratic institutions and the observance of human rights guarantees in Ukraine.
As indicated by the European Commission, "martial law allows the introduction of certain restrictions on the rights and freedoms of individuals, rights and legal interests of legal entities. In general, its application was proportionate."
However, they noted that "cases of disproportionate travel restrictions for representatives of the parliamentary opposition and alleged pressure on civil society organizations (CSOs) need to be properly addressed."
"The general basis of fundamental rights is satisfactory. The authorities of Ukraine have maintained their general respect for fundamental rights and demonstrated their commitment to their protection and further alignment with the EU acquis, despite limitations due to the ongoing war and martial law. Martial law led to certain restrictions on rights and freedoms, but they remained largely proportionate to the security situation and were generally applied cautiously." — European Commission officials note.
The EC also indicated that, despite the restrictions of martial law, civil society organizations (CSOs) continued their activities relatively unhindered.
"Constructive cooperation between authorities and CSOs really takes place in a wide range of political spheres" - stated in the report.
At the same time, according to the European Commission, they are needed "measures to strengthen existing mechanisms to protect civil society activists from pressure."
"The government expanded programs of state financing of CSOs. Ukraine has several strategic documents that promote the involvement of civil society. They continued to be implemented in a consultative and transparent process. In June 2024, a law on public consultation was passed, which requires broad and mandatory consultation of state authorities and local governments during decision-making before the adoption of legislation. However, the Law will enter into force only 12 months after the end of martial law. - indicated the European Commission.
Also, the EC indicated that ongoing efforts to effectively implement justice reforms and conduct integrity checks led to strengthening the independence and accountability of the judicial system. In addition, according to the EC, measures regarding integrity in the public service are needed, and anti-corruption bodies need more resources, broader and independent powers and freedom from undue political interference and influence.
Also, according to the EC, Ukraine needs anti-corruption strategies and systematic risk assessment in key sectors. We would like to remind you that such strategies and assessment are currently carried out jointly with CSOs.
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