First of all, during a meeting with representatives of friendly countries – ombudsmen, deputy ombudsmen and human rights experts – the First Deputy Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine Oleksandr Korniienko emphasised the crimes committed by the aggressor on the territory of Ukraine against its citizens – against civilians, children, adults and military.
"Our country is one of the examples of a global problem. A coalition of evil is being formed, which in the future may act against humanism, democracy and people's choice," said the First Vice-Speaker, adding that it is now very important that work continues to return the issue of human rights to the global agenda through joint actions of the Ombudsmen. "We are open to these processes. In particular, the Ukrainian Parliament will always assist in all requests submitted by the Office of the Ombudsman of Ukraine," he said.
In addition, Oleksandr Korniienko informed that progress is being made on the topic of minority rights, in particular, the updated version of the Law of Ukraine "On National Minorities (Communities) of Ukraine" will soon be voted on. He also said that the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine is actively working to increase equal opportunities, with discussions on civil partnership legislation taking place.
The First Deputy Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine assured that the Ukrainian ombudsman institution would only get stronger.
In conclusion, he expressed his gratitude for the dialogue and concrete proposals for further cooperation: "We must demonstrate the common strength of human rights protection together."