You're reading: Poroshenko signs law on volunteerism

Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko has signed the law on developing volunteerism in Ukraine and raising the quality of volunteer help.

On March 30 the president’s press service reported that the law “On amendments to certain legislative acts of Ukraine regarding volunteerism” will regulate volunteer public relations in Ukraine. The main aims of the new law are to ensure efficient legal regulation of volunteer movements in Ukraine, to promote volunteering in Ukraine, and to improve the quality of voluntary assistance.

The law defines the specifics of volunteering, clarifies the terms “volunteerism” and “volunteer”, removes restrictions on volunteer organizations and institutions, specifies the rights and responsibilities of volunteers, organizations and institutions that engage volunteers, and stipulates the aspects of reimbursement for voluntary assistance.

The law also amends voluntary life and health insurance for volunteers while they provide assistance to organizations and institutions.