Problems of implementing Ukraine’s international obligations regarding the social protection of persons with disabilities resulting from the war

Abstract

Abstract: Purpose. The article examines the state of implementation of Ukraine’s international obligations in the field of social protection of persons with disabilities, particularly in the context of the ongoing war, which has caused a significant increase in the number of people with disabilities as a result of hostilities. The purpose of the study is to identify the main problems in the implementation of international treaties primarily the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, the Revised European Social Charter, and relevant acts of international humanitarian law into Ukraine’s national legislation. Methods. To achieve this goal, a set of general scientific and special legal methods was applied, including system-structural, comparative-legal, formal-dogmatic, and normative analysis methods. Empirical materials were drawn from reports of the United Nations, the Council of Europe, the Commissioner of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine for Human Rights, and the Ministry of Social Policy of Ukraine for 2023–2025. Results. The study found that despite the formal incorporation of international standards into national legislation, their practical implementation remains insufficient. The main problems identified include: fragmentation of legal regulation; lack of an effective mechanism for monitoring the implementation of the recommendations of the UN Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities; insufficient funding of rehabilitation and professional integration programs; limited accessibility of infrastructure and social services; and poor coordination between central and local authorities. The research also highlights new challenges related to the reform of the medical and social examination system and the transition to the assessment of an individual’s functional capabilities. Conclusions. The study confirms that the effective fulfillment of Ukraine’s international obligations is possible only through a comprehensive approach combining harmonization of national legislation with international norms, strengthening the institutional capacity of social protection bodies, improving interagency cooperation, and ensuring adequate funding for support programs. Special attention should be paid to the introduction of a systematic monitoring mechanism for the implementation of the UN Convention and to enhancing Ukraine’s participation in international initiatives aimed at the rehabilitation of persons with disabilities resulting from the war.