The Council of Europe presented on 10 October, 2014 its Opinion on the draft law on the “On ensuring of rights and freedoms of internally displaced persons” that will soon be considered by the Verkhovna Rada.

 The conclusions of the Opinion are clear: the draft law provides the necessary basis for addressing the urgent need for protection of IDPs. Consequently, the CoE recommends its adoption without further delay.

 The opinion suggests a number of improvements that the Verkhovna Rada may take into consideration.

Above all however, the Opinion stresses the need to secure a smooth, coordinated and efficient implementation of the law. This will require in particular prompt adjustments in the laws on customs and taxes concerning humanitarian aid received from abroad as well as some institutional adjustments. The Council of Europe is ready to assist Ukraine in the implementation of the law, when adopted.

Mr. Markus JAEGER, Deputy to the Special Adviser to the Secretary General for Ukraine, carried out last week, an exploratory mission relating to the protection of IDPs. He had meetings with authorities, representatives of the International community in Ukraine and civil society.