In a conversation with Livy Bereg, the head of the Association, Ihor Kotelianets, explained that for civilians who were released from captivity ‘in other ways’ (outside of official exchanges), the path to state assistance often runs into impossible demands to ‘prove the obvious.’ When we advise on how to submit an application, we recommend proceeding on the assumption that the commission will consider you to be lying — and you will need to prove the opposite," said Ihor Kotelianets.

What the interview is about

The burden of proof is on the victim. Even with interrogation reports, testimonies, and medical records, people are told, ‘There is insufficient evidence.’

The subjectivity of the decisions of the Commission under the Ministry of Development: vague criteria, unmotivated refusals, and no opportunity to be heard.

Financial assistance is outdated and delayed. The amount of 100,000 UAH was approved back in 2018, but there is no indexation or clear payment deadlines.

Medical and psychosocial support is mainly provided by charities; no systematic model for civilians has been developed.

Local support programmes exist only in a few communities, although the need is everywhere. The article features real stories of those who have been released, including Serhiy (name changed) from Kherson and Roman Baklazhov. They talk about torture, PTSD and... endless bureaucracy after their release.

What needs to be changed immediately:

1. Standards of proof for the Commission + the possibility of a personal hearing for the applicant.

2. Transparency of decisions and reasons for refusals so that people understand what exactly to add.

3. Indexation of payments and specific deadlines for their implementation.

4. A single roadmap for medical, psychological, and rehabilitation assistance for civilians.

5. Rotation and expansion of NGO representation on the Commission, with the involvement of organisations that work specifically with civilian hostages.

If you or your relatives have experienced unlawful imprisonment and need help collecting evidence and submitting documents, please contact our legal aid service. We work with cases throughout Ukraine and will help you go through the procedures as efficiently and safely as possible.

Full text - https://lb.ua/society/2025/09/15/696273_nedostatno_dokaziv_dlya_derzhavi_mi.html

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