Project donor organization:
ABA ROLI
Project start:
01.2011
Project completion:
10.2011
Xenophobia and racism in Eastern Ukraine
The analysis of the processes of developing changes and recommendations within the framework of the study was directly related to the analysis of the current criminal legislation and the practice of its application. Particular attention was paid to identifying gaps and shortcomings in legal regulation in terms of countering manifestations of xenophobia and racism.
The analysis considered approaches to the qualification of crimes motivated by racial or national hatred, as well as the effectiveness of existing mechanisms for bringing them to criminal responsibility. The recommendations were based on a generalization of practical experience, monitoring results, and an assessment of the compliance of national legislation with international standards in the field of human rights protection.
Thus, the proposed changes were aimed at improving criminal law instruments for responding to manifestations of xenophobia and racism, as well as increasing the effectiveness of their prevention in the region.
1. What are the main manifestations of xenophobia and racism observed in Eastern Ukraine?
These are mainly discriminatory statements, attacks on representatives of national minorities, offensive inscriptions and expressions of hatred on social networks.
2. How does the current criminal legislation of Ukraine regulate liability for crimes motivated by racial or national hatred?
The law provides for criminal liability for crimes motivated by racial, national, or religious hatred, including physical violence, threats, and other offenses.
3. What gaps and problematic issues in national legislation were identified during the analysis?
The main problems are the insufficiently clear definition of the motives for hate crimes and the limited practice of effective application of norms in courts.
4. What recommendations have been developed to improve criminal law mechanisms?
The recommendations include clarifying the qualification of hate crimes, strengthening preventive measures, raising awareness among law enforcement officers and judges, and adapting legislation to international standards.