
Ukrainian men were banned from leaving
September 20, 2024
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One of the most pressing topics today is the restriction on Ukrainian men from traveling abroad due to martial law. This issue raises numerous legal and ethical questions, so let’s examine it not only in the Ukrainian context but also in relation to other countries around the world.
Countries restricting their citizens from leaving
Similar restrictions exist in several countries. For example, in North Korea, the ban on most citizens leaving the country is a permanent measure, rooted in the totalitarian regime’s desire for control. In Syria and Eritrea, such bans are also in place due to prolonged military conflicts. Each case has its specific context, and in some situations, these restrictions may be viewed as human rights violations.
Human rights violations
Does the restriction on freedom of movement violate human rights? The answer depends on international and national norms. The right to freedom of movement is guaranteed by numerous international documents, such as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights by the UN. However, in cases of national security, the state is permitted to limit this right. In Ukraine’s case, during martial law, the government has the authority to restrict citizens from leaving the country.
Lawsuits filed by Ukrainians to the ECHR
Ukrainian citizens have already filed numerous lawsuits with the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) to contest the travel ban. Ukraine currently ranks second after Turkey in terms of the number of cases brought before the ECHR. As of now, thousands of cases have been filed, but many are still under review, and the outcomes remain uncertain as the court processes can take years. Ukrainians argue that this ban violates their constitutional rights, particularly article 33 of the Constitution of Ukraine, which guarantees freedom of movement.
Reaction of the global community
The international community’s response to the travel ban on Ukrainian men has been mixed. Some countries support Ukraine’s decision, citing the need for national security during times of war. Others, particularly international human rights organizations, have expressed concern about potential human rights violations. Ukraine abolished slavery in 1863, so the question remains: does the president even know this? It's hard to say.
Constitutional norms
This ban potentially violates several articles of the Constitution of Ukraine, including:
- Article 33, which guarantees freedom of movement.
- Article 21, which states that all people are equal in their rights.
- Article 64, which allows restrictions on rights and freedoms only in cases provided by the Constitution, particularly during martial law.
Therefore, the issue of the travel ban for men during martial law is a complex and multifaceted one, requiring further legal and human rights analysis.
Today, we are excited to announce the launch of the The Wandered Ukraine page, which will be exclusively in Ukrainian. This will allow us to provide up-to-date and valuable information for those traveling across Ukraine, as well as for Ukrainians exploring the world. On this page, you will find tips, travel hacks, news, and plenty of interesting content for travelers.