🇺🇦🏛️ The editorial team of www.ndu.kr.ua reports on the outcomes of the plenary session of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine held on 25 February 2026. During this session, the parliament adopted a series of significant laws aimed at strengthening social support for citizens, enhancing national defence capabilities, advancing scientific development, and modernising infrastructure.
The focus of the MPs was on protecting people affected by the war, supporting service members, modernising the scientific sector, and reforming land reclamation systems.
Key Parliamentary Decisions
Social Protection for Critical Infrastructure Workers and Their Families
The Verkhovna Rada adopted Law No. 14303, improving the mechanism for one-time financial assistance to those who died or were injured while performing their duties during wartime.
The law provides for:
an expanded list of beneficiaries eligible for compensation;
clarified requirements for granting assistance;
a broader list of family members entitled to payments;
additional compensation in cases of higher disability ratings;
extended application deadlines during and after martial law.
These amendments create a fairer and more stable system of social protection amid ongoing aggression.
Comprehensive Guarantees for Service Members and Their Families
Parliament adopted Law No. 13646, which systematically strengthens the labour, social, and pension rights of military personnel.
Key provisions include:
preservation of jobs and salaries;
compensation for unused leave;
crediting military service towards employment and insurance records;
expanded financial support for families;
a maximum one-time payment of up to UAH 15 million.
This law ensures financial stability for service members and reduces social risks for their families.
Development of Research Infrastructure and Support for Young Scientists
The Verkhovna Rada adopted Law No. 10218, updating the management of the scientific sector and integrating Ukraine into the European research area.
The law introduces:
mandatory elections for heads of research institutions;
harmonisation of national legislation with EU standards;
optimisation of laboratory resources;
expanded grant opportunities;
the introduction of a postdoctoral researcher status.
These measures align with Ukraine’s strategy to participate in programmes like “Horizon Europe” and help preserve scientific potential.
Strengthening Discipline in the Armed Forces and Civil Protection
Law No. 13037 enhances disciplinary mechanisms in the military and civil protection sectors.
Major innovations include:
codified standards of proper conduct;
prohibition of discrimination and sexual harassment;
mandatory response by commanders to violations;
protection for whistleblowers.
These measures bring military and civil service practices in line with European human rights standards.
Modernisation of Land Reclamation Management
Parliament passed Law No. 7577, marking the second stage of land reclamation reform.
Its goals are to:
create a modern management system for reclamation infrastructure;
attract private investment;
reduce budgetary burdens;
minimise water and energy losses;
improve environmental efficiency.
This reform is crucial for developing the agricultural sector and ensuring water security.
Analytical Highlights: What These Decisions Mean
The adopted legislative package demonstrates a systematic approach to managing wartime challenges.
Social laws establish long-term support models for affected citizens and service members, rather than short-term compensation.
Investments in science and research infrastructure reflect a focus on post-war recovery and a knowledge-driven economy.
Strengthened military discipline aligns with NATO and EU standards, supporting European integration.
Land reclamation reform integrates economic, environmental, and security aspects consistent with modern sustainable development policies.
Together, these decisions lay the groundwork for institutional resilience during the war and for future reconstruction.
Impact on Citizens
For Ukrainian citizens, the adopted laws have direct, practical effects:
families of the fallen and injured receive broader guarantees;
service members retain labour and pension rights;
young scientists gain new development opportunities;
farmers and local communities benefit from more efficient infrastructure;
military units enjoy a safer and fairer service environment.
These measures strengthen social trust and stability across the country.
Conclusions and Next Steps
The 25 February 2026 plenary session exemplified the Verkhovna Rada’s comprehensive approach to wartime legislative work.
The adopted laws:
enhance social justice;
support national defence;
promote scientific progress;
modernise infrastructure.
The next key stage is the effective implementation of these provisions by the government, local authorities, and relevant agencies, supported by parliamentary oversight.
The editorial team of www.ndu.kr.ua will continue to monitor the practical implementation of these decisions and inform citizens about their impact on daily life.
