Survey on the Legal Needs of Veterans and Their Family Members

Survey on the Legal Needs of Veterans and Their Family Members

December 19, 2024

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Ukraine, in partnership with the Government of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, has developed the first comprehensive study on the legal needs of veterans and their families in Ukraine. The findings highlight key challenges, including difficulties in military discharge, obtaining official status, and accessing social benefits. Special attention is given to gender-related aspects, underscoring the heightened need for legal support among women veterans.

One of the most significant barriers identified is the lack of awareness about available legal assistance, which reaches 74% in Chernihiv Oblast. Veterans and their families cite access to legal rights information, pension assistance, appeals against government decisions, and support in obtaining official status as their top priorities.

This study offers practical recommendations to enhance veterans' access to legal aid and strengthen support for their families.

The report was prepared by the SREO Consulting team, with the support of UNDP in Ukraine and financial assistance from the Government of the Kingdom of the Netherlands.

The opinions, recommendations, and conclusions presented in this report are solely those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official positions of UNDP, the United Nations, the Government of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, or other international partners.