New rules for public service access for citizens with multiple citizenships

Draft Law No. 14230, "On Amendments to Certain Laws of Ukraine Regarding the Peculiarities of Holding Certain Positions by Citizens of Ukraine Who Hold Foreign Citizenship," has been registered in the Verkhovna Rada. The document proposes to unify the requirements for public service and establish restrictions for individuals who hold citizenship of states officially recognized as aggressors or occupiers.

Access to public service is made more difficult for citizens of Ukraine who also hold foreign citizenship — especially if that state is recognized as an aggressor or occupier.

A ban may be established for such individuals on holding certain positions in government bodies.

An exception is provided for Ukrainians who "were forced to automatically acquire Russian citizenship" in the temporarily occupied territories — but even they will be able to hold certain positions only after a special check involving law enforcement and special services (for example, a polygraph test may be conducted).

The draft law also provides for amendments to laws regulating official and elected positions (for example: in laws on deputies, the SBU, military service, local self-government) — meaning the restrictions will affect not only traditional civil service but also other important public roles.