Experts from the Ukrainian Center for Independent Political Research (UCIPR) have analyzed Draft Civil Code of Ukraine No. 15150, dated April 9, 2026, regarding its impact on the activities of civil society organizations (CSOs).
The bill envisions a massive recodification of civil legislation and effectively establishes a new model for civil law regulation in Ukraine. Among the stated goals of the document are the adaptation of private law to European standards, the digitalization of social relations, and the requirements of European integration.
At the same time, UCIPR experts point out that certain provisions of the draft law could pose risks to the activities of civil society organizations, freedom of expression, and human rights advocacy.
The draft law could:
- Create additional mechanisms for judicial pressure on activists and journalists;
- Heighten the risks of restricting the freedom to disseminate socially significant information;
- Complicate the internal governance of public and charitable organizations;
- Introduce an excessive regulatory burden on CSOs.
Provisions causing particular concern include those regarding:
- The application of corporate governance mechanisms to CSOs;
- The requirement of a qualified majority to approve significant transactions;
- The refutation of inaccurate information, regardless of fault;
- The "right to be forgotten."
At the same time, experts note that updating civil legislation and aligning it with European approaches is necessary. However, such a reform requires a broad professional and public discussion involving the civil society sector, human rights defenders, the journalistic community, and international experts.
UCIPR experts recommend returning the bill for substantial revision prior to its second reading, reviewing the provisions that could restrict CSO activities, and ensuring the document complies with Council of Europe standards, ECHR case law, and the principles of freedom of speech and freedom of association.
🔗 Read the detailed analysis at the link.
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Institutional support for UCIPR's activities is provided by the East Europe Foundation within the "Phoenix: Power of Communities" project, supported by the European Union. The content of the materials created is the sole responsibility of UCIPR and does not necessarily reflect the position of the East Europe Foundation or the EU.
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