Administrative and Legal Regulation of Humanitarian Aid Under Martial Law

Abstract

Since 2014, humanitarian aid has been one of the factors that has helped to ensure the livelihoods of the civilian population in eastern Ukraine (Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts). However, since the end of February 2022, humanitarian aid has become an important element of support for the population of Ukraine, as many citizens have found themselves in an extremely vulnerable economic, social and psychological situation under martial law. Since the beginning of the full-scale invasion of Ukraine by the Russian Federation, the problem of providing humanitarian aid, charitable donations and free assistance to military personnel and civilians, primarily internally displaced persons, has become urgent. Both Ukrainians and the international community, volunteers, NGOs and charitable foundations have united to help Ukraine. Responding to the challenges, the state began to rapidly restructure and diversify the existing system of providing humanitarian aid, charitable donations and free assistance to ensure that they are promptly delivered to those in need. The public became more active and joined forces in providing assistance to both internally displaced persons and military units, which led to the creation of a significant number of charitable organizations and intensified volunteerism. At the same time, cases of criminal offenses in the use of humanitarian aid and charitable donations, including fraud, misuse of aid, embezzlement, etc. have become more frequent.