10 September 2024 - Ukraine has ratified the UN Convention on Transnational Organised Crime (UNTOC) under which it is updating its national strategy on organized crime. The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) is supporting this process through an inclusive and evidence-based approach that responds to the rapidly evolving organised crime and security challenges in Ukraine.
Within this framework, UNODC convened a stakeholder consultation on 27 and 28 August, focusing on the reintegration of veterans as a cornerstone for developing more effective responses to combat organized crime and ensure a safer, more inclusive future for veterans and society as a whole.
“There are more than 1 million Ukrainians in military service at present, 300 000 of whom are in active combat – if only a fraction of these veterans fall into criminal activity, the impact on Ukrainian society will be profound.” (The Global Initiative against Transnational Organized Crime)
Research indicates that veterans face a unique set of challenges when returning to civilian life and may be at risk of engaging in criminal behaviour due to factors such as the psychological impact of the war, economic pressures, social isolation, and targeted recruitment by organized criminal groups. These groups seek to capitalize on veterans’ combat and organizational skills, discipline, intelligence-gathering and networks.
The transition from military to civilian life can be challenging, and while many veterans successfully reintegrate, some may face difficulties that, if left unaddressed, could increase their vulnerability to criminal involvement or exploitation by organized crime networks.
During the consultation, stakeholders – including representatives of veterans' organisations, international organisations, criminal justice experts, civil society and government officials – emphasized the importance of building an inclusive and comprehensive strategy. This strategy should address broader security threats posed by organized crime, recognizing and responding to the unique risks and vulnerabilities inherent in the reintegration of veterans to civilian life.
In line with the Government's priorities, the consultation provided an opportunity for stakeholders to exchange views on how to incorporate veterans-related policies into the national organized crime strategy. It also highlighted the need for a legal framework to proactively address the challenges of reintegration and reduce the risks faced by veterans in Ukraine, including in a post-war environment.
The involvement of veterans' organisations and other key national partners was crucial for collecting inputs and testimonies that will shape policies and programmes to support veterans in their transition to civilian life through comprehensive legal and social support systems, including psychosocial and physical rehabilitation services, access to justice, employment and vocational training opportunities, and recognition of service.
