Deliberately blocking military draft offices entails severe criminal liability
The Ministry of Defence of Ukraine has reminded citizens of the criminal liability for interfering with the legitimate activities of territorial recruitment and social support centres. The agency emphasized that such actions can be prosecuted under Article 114-1 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine. This is reported by the portal PromPolitInform, citing information from the Ministry of Defence of Ukraine.
Deliberately obstructing the work of territorial recruitment and social support centres during a special period is regarded as a crime against the state’s defence capability. The relevant provision of the Criminal Code protects the legitimate operations of the Armed Forces of Ukraine and other military formations, of which these centres are structural units.
Citizen Obligations and Centre Powers
During mobilization, male citizens aged 18 to 60 are required to carry a military registration document and present it upon request by authorized representatives. Having a deferment from conscription does not exempt an individual from the obligation to comply with military registration rules.
In turn, the personnel of the recruitment centres operate on the basis of powers defined by legislation, specifically Cabinet of Ministers resolutions No. 154 and No. 560. They are authorized to conduct notifications, verify documents, and organize military conscription procedures.
Actions Considered Obstruction
Unlawful acts include physical interference with authorized representatives to disrupt mobilization measures. Citizens who block official vehicles or access to administrative premises may also face prosecution under the Criminal Code.
Disseminating information about the locations and movements of recruitment personnel to help draft evaders avoid checks is recognized as a separate offence. The Supreme Court has previously classified similar actions by Telegram community administrators as a criminal act.
Prison Sentences for Violators
The article provides for five to eight years of imprisonment for obstructing the military’s activities during a special period. If such unlawful actions result in human deaths or other severe consequences, the prison sentence increases to eight to fifteen years.
To establish liability under the first part of this provision, causing severe consequences or casualties is not mandatory. Any sane person who has reached the age of criminal responsibility can become a subject of this crime, including those not subject to conscription themselves.
Procedures for Appealing Decisions
If citizens disagree with the decisions or actions of recruitment officials, they have the right to appeal them through administrative subordination or in court. It is also permitted to seek protection from the Ukrainian Parliament Commissioner for Human Rights or obtain legal assistance.
Photo: Ministry of Defence of Ukraine
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