Tracking Reforms and Parliamentary Decisions
UA Parliamentary Highlights focus on legislative initiatives in economic policy, public administration reforms, and European integration. We provide in-depth analysis of how these changes impact Ukraine’s development and its alignment with European standards.
We offer clear and accessible insights into key laws, highlighting their advantages, disadvantages, and providing recommendations for improvement. Each “UA Parliamentary Highlights” aims to enhance understanding of legislative initiatives and their potential effects on the economy and governance.
Our analysis is continuously updated to reflect the latest legislative developments. We strive to provide accurate and timely information, helping you stay informed about trends in economic reforms and Ukraine’s European integration process.
UA Parliamentary Highlights: April 15–18, 2025 (№3-2025)
Postponement of Key Reforms: During last week’s parliamentary session, two critical draft laws – No. 12374-d on ARMA reform and No. 4298 on restructuring territorial executive authorities – were once again not considered. Both were anticipated to be passed in Q1-2025 under the Ukraine Plan 2024–2027. Delays in their adoption have raised concerns about Ukraine’s compliance with performance indicators tied to financial aid via the Ukraine Facility.
Local Governance Reform. The parliament excluded Draft Law No. 13150, which aimed to ensure legality in local self-government activities, from its weekly agenda. With no alternatives proposed, efforts to transform local state administrations into prefecture-type bodies remain stalled, putting key governance goals in jeopardy.
Vocational Education Reform. The Draft Law on Vocational Education (No. 13107-1) was adopted in the first reading, reflecting consolidated input from educators, employers, and public authorities. However, controversial language provisions related to minority-language education have sparked intense political debates, casting doubt on the law's future approval.
Accountability for State Officials. Draft Law No. 5838, strengthening penalties for violations committed by state supervision officials, progressed to the first reading. While the proposed changes aim to improve oversight mechanisms, concerns persist about reduced protections for inspected businesses.
Media Protection Legislation. Law No. 5870-1 on media services using conditional access was passed in the second reading. Implementing EU Directive provisions, the legislation resolves earlier disputes over unclear definitions and supervisory powers. Now awaiting presidential approval, it promises to modernize Ukraine’s media landscape.
UA Parliamentary Highlights cover March 25–28, 2025 (№2-2025)
Postponement of Key Reforms: The consideration of Draft Law (DL) no. 12374-1 on ARMA reform and DL no. 4298 on restructuring local authorities has been delayed due to political disagreements. Both laws were expected to pass in the first quarter under the Ukraine Plan 2024-2027.
ARMA Reform: DL no. 12374-1 suggests changes to the Asset Recovery and Management Agency (ARMA), including international involvement in the selection committee. Concerns linger about self-financing rules that may affect the agency's independence.
Territorial Structure Reform: DL no. 4298 seeks to change local state administrations into prefecture-like bodies. Internal conflicts within the lead subcommittee have slowed its progress, and a new version has not been made public.
Civil Service Pay Reform: The passed Law no. 9478 made changes that include controversial provisions, such as unequal seniority bonuses and pay differences between ministries. This has caused delays in its implementation.
Cybersecurity: Law no. 11290 to strengthen cyber defence was approved. Although it improves security, there are worries about expanding the powers of the State Service of Special Communications.
UA Parliamentary Highlights cover March 11–14, 2025 (№1-2025)
Judicial Reform: Parliament approved a law to set up the High Administrative Court, replacing the old Kyiv District Administrative Court, but it does not meet all IMF standards.
Civil Service Reform: A new law on civil servant pay was passed as part of the Ukraine Facility, but pay differences among government agencies are still an issue.
Law Enforcement Reform: Parliament agreed to raise police salaries due to sector demands, but a full law enforcement reform is still needed.
National Security: New amendments have tougher penalties for breaking military registration rules and address worries about unfair penalties.
Cybersecurity: A Law to better protect state IT systems is being revised because of concerns about giving more power to the State Service of Special Communications.
