What should democratic security look like in a country that, in the midst of war, not only defends its freedom but also consistently strengthens the rule of law, human rights and the resilience of democratic institutions?
The answer to this question forms the basis of the Council of Europe’s joint work with Ukrainian partners on the preparation of a new Action Plan, “Democratic Security for Ukraine” for the period 2027-2030.
On February 25, 2026, a strategic session was held with the participation of representatives of the Council of Europe, dedicated to developing Ukraine’s key priorities and needs for the next four years. Representatives of state authorities, the public sector and the expert community were involved in the discussion.
Oleh Koliush, Deputy Chairman of the High Qualification Commission of Judges of Ukraine, also took part in the dialogue, noting that addressing the issue of staff shortages in the judicial system is one of the key factors for the stability of democratic institutions in our country.
The main objective of the Commission is to form an honest and highly professional judiciary, and therefore the Commission’s strategic objectives, proposed for consideration in the preparation of the Council of Europe Action Plan for 2027-2030, focus on improving competitive procedures, assessment procedures, strengthening the institutional capacity of the body, in particular through the introduction of digital solutions, and harmonising national practices with modern European standards.
The HQCJ confirms its readiness to engage in constructive cooperation with international partners with a view to further integration of these areas into programmes supporting judicial reform in Ukraine.
For reference: Currently, with the support of the Council of Europe, the project “Supporting Ukraine in implementing Council of Europe standards on the judiciary” is being implemented. The project cycle covers the period from April 01, 2025 to December 31, 2026. Its overall objective is to bring the Ukrainian judicial system into line with European standards during the war and post-war periods in order to ensure fair justice.
The components of the project focus on supporting the judiciary, improving disciplinary mechanisms and integrity criteria, and strengthening the consideration of ECHR practice in judicial education and law enforcement. Key partners include the Supreme Court, the High Council of Justice, the High Qualification Commission of Judges of Ukraine, the Ministry of Justice of Ukraine, the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine, and the National School of Judges of Ukraine. The Project’s activities are coordinated with initiatives of the EU, OSCE, UN, and the Embassy of Canada.
