On 6 November, the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine adopted draft law No. 13418, which aims to improve flood risk management and ensure the country’s participation in the European Union’s Civil Protection Mechanism. The document provides for amendments to the Water Code and the Civil Protection Code of Ukraine.
The need to update the legislation is due to the need to adapt Ukrainian standards to European practices. Currently, Ukraine lacks a comprehensive legal mechanism for flood risk management that would provide for a systematic assessment of threats, the creation of risk maps and action plans to prevent emergencies.
The draft law also defines the powers of the central executive body in the field of civil protection as the national coordinator of Ukraine’s participation in the EU Civil Protection Mechanism. This will allow for more effective cooperation with European partners and the provision and receipt of assistance in emergencies.
Ukraine joined this mechanism back in 2023 after ratifying the relevant agreement between Ukraine and the EU. The new draft law is intended to create a legal basis for the practical implementation of the commitments made by the state under the agreement.
The document also harmonises Ukrainian legislation with EU standards, clearly delineates the powers of central and local authorities in the field of flood risk management. It introduces a unified approach to planning and responding to possible emergencies related to water threats.
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