Ukraine adopts new human rights strategy to protect LGBTI+ community

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has approved a new national human rights strategy aimed at aligning the country’s legal framework with European Union standards as part of the path toward EU accession. The strategy, issued via Decree No. 1038/2026, identifies the LGBTI+ community as a group at heightened risk of human rights violations.

Key measures include improving the investigation of hate crimes and intolerance-motivated offenses. The plan calls for enhanced training for police and judges, increased public awareness of rights, and stronger legal provisions regarding sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression. The strategy also seeks to improve access to legal assistance, social services, healthcare, and education for queer individuals.

Beyond the LGBTI+ community, the strategy outlines protections for children, veterans, people with disabilities, national minorities, indigenous peoples, and internally displaced persons. The Cabinet of Ministers is required to develop an operational program for 2027–2029 within six months, with annual progress reports submitted to the president.