First Deputy Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine Oleksandr Korniienko participated in the conference «The Future of Political Parties in Ukraine» organized by the Danish Institute for Parties and Democracy (DIPD).
He noted that it is significant that such events take place despite all challenges and focus on issues concerning political parties and parliamentary democracy.
During his speech, Oleksandr Korniienko addressed key aspects of the Ukrainian-Danish partnership, expressing deep gratitude to the people of Denmark for their longstanding and consistent support of Ukraine—both in the fight against corruption over recent years and in defense against russian aggression. He recalled the historical ties between our peoples that have lasted for over a thousand years and emphasized the importance of solidarity between parliamentarians of both countries, particularly in implementing anti-corruption initiatives. «Thank you, Denmark, for your attention to Ukraine, your support, and for standing by our side,» he said.
The First Deputy Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada devoted particular attention to the reform of political parties in Ukraine. He emphasized the need to update the outdated legislation, which was established in the early 2000s and is currently fragmented and ineffective. According to him, work on a new version of the law on political parties has been underway for over four years, and it is now time to move forward with the registration of specific draft laws and substantive discussions in Parliament. «The decision must be balanced and agreed upon by all parties,» the First Deputy Speaker noted.
Oleksandr Korniienko underscored the importance of developing party system reforms as a key component of democratic transformation and adapting the political process to EU standards. He emphasized that the reform should address not only party legislation but also the mechanisms of interaction among parliamentary factions, coalitions, and the opposition. Regarding party financing, he stressed that funds should be used more purposefully to strengthen the capacity of parties within Parliament. Additionally, he noted significant changes over this period, including the active advancement of digitalization, which must also be taken into account in preparing the new version of the law. «Strong political parties with an effective network and outreach are fundamental to driving change in the country’s key political processes amid European integration,» Oleksandr Korniienko added.
The First Deputy Speaker also drew his colleagues’ attention to the implementation of the Jean Monnet Dialogue conclusions on parliamentary reform, specifically regarding legislation on the opposition and coalition, the ethical code for deputies, and a series of amendments to the parliamentary rules of procedure.
Oleksandr Korniienko also emphasized the necessity of preserving the democratic achievements of Ukrainian parliamentarism. According to him, the Verkhovna Rada has repeatedly demonstrated its capacity to assume responsibility during the most challenging periods in the country’s history — particularly during the Orange Revolution, the Revolution of Dignity, and the current war. The First Deputy Speaker believes that this experience should serve as a foundation for the institution’s continued development.
In conclusion, he called for continued joint efforts on reforms — even amid wartime — to ensure the continuity and resilience of democratic institutions in the future. «Thank you to my colleagues — let us keep working to strengthen democracy,» Oleksandr Korniienko stated.