‘In 2023, there were over a thousand scandalous stories involving employees of territorial recruitment centers’ – ombudsman said

In 2023, there were over a thousand scandalous incidents involving employees of territorial recruitment centers.

This was stated by the Commissioner of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine for Human Rights, Dmitry Lubinets.

“This year, there have already been more than 300 similar cases. These are, let’s say, cases that need to be investigated. There are many more complaints,” he added.

At the same time, no one truly punishes military recruitment officers for exceeding their authority.

“I am informed that disciplinary proceedings have been initiated, and administrative penalties have been imposed on some individuals. But even in the most flagrant cases, I do not see any real punishment,” said Lubinets.

He explains this by stating that they “do not want to bring the situation to any real military punishment because it can be interpreted differently.”

“According to many, it will be seen as him being a hero, detaining draft dodgers. But in the opinion of another part of Ukraine, he will be seen as someone who violated the rights of a citizen,” the ombudsman said.

Earlier, the ombudsman stated that military recruitment officers cannot detain Ukrainians on the streets. He noted that it is the employees of the National Police who “have the right to stop people, check documents, make decisions and voice any lawful demands.”

In January, Lubinets spoke out against the possible expansion of the powers of territorial recruitment centers according to the updated bill on toughening mobilization.