The Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine has approved new regulations prohibiting discrimination in the military in the areas of logistical, medical, psychological, and social support.
This new policy introduces adjustments to the support framework for military personnel, considering the specific needs of women and prohibiting any form of discrimination. The key aspects of the document can be divided into several categories:
- Ensuring Equality and Protection from Discrimination.
The regulation prohibits discrimination based on gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, and other characteristics. This ensures equal rights and opportunities for women and LGBTQI+ individuals in service, including contract signing, career growth, and training opportunities.
- Budgeting and Funding.
Gender-sensitive approaches will be applied in the development of budget programs for the Security and Defense Forces, taking into account the specific needs of different genders.
- Addressing Women’s Needs and Ensuring Inclusivity.
Plans include creating infrastructure that identifies and addresses the needs of women, fostering inclusivity. Women will receive appropriate gear, including uniforms, hygiene supplies, and protective equipment tailored to their physiological needs.
- Psychological Support.
The policy establishes specific protocols for psychological support and assistance for service members who have experienced combat stress or sexual harassment. This support will be provided in safe, confidential settings.
Additionally, family members of service members—especially those whose relatives are in captivity, missing, or in encirclement—will receive psychological support from specialists at territorial recruitment and social support centers.
- Medical Treatment and Examinations.
Military personnel will receive regular medical examinations, including:
— For female service members: gynecological and mammological exams.
— For male service members: mammological and urological exams.
- Needs of Transgender Personnel.
The approved program does not outline separate provisions for transgender military personnel; however, specialized medical care will be provided, with examinations tailored to the individual’s gender and age. Psychological support will be adapted to meet gender-specific needs, aimed at reducing stress impacts.
This policy marks Ukraine’s adoption of NATO practices to ensure equal rights in the military. These changes not only improve service conditions, but also enhance cooperation with international partners and establish a new standard of compliance with modern human rights protections.