Experts from the Ukrainian Center for Independent Political Research have analyzed Draft Law No. 11521, which proposes changes to the approaches toward philanthropic activity in the field of sports. Although the document was registered in the Verkhovna Rada in 2024, it has recently returned to the spotlight following a review by the specialized committee, which emphasized the need for its revision.
The draft law aims to stimulate philanthropic activity in sports, specifically by expanding financing opportunities for the Olympic and Paralympic movements and introducing new approaches to defining the status of philanthropists and their interactions with the state.
UCIPR notes that the initiative has several potential benefits. It could increase transparency in philanthropic activities, expand funding sources for sports, and foster more systemic interaction among the state, business, and civil society.
At the same time, the current draft law contains several significant risks and inconsistencies. Key concerns include:
- Inconsistency of certain provisions with the Budget Code of Ukraine;
- Risks of excessive discretion in the distribution of budget support;
- Potential interference with the budgetary autonomy of local self-government bodies;
- Non-compliance of certain norms with Ukraine's international obligations;
- Excessive administrative burden on civil society organizations.
Special attention is given in the analysis to the potential risks of fund misuse, vague terminology, and a lack of alignment with anti-corruption legislation.
According to UCIPR’s conclusions, while the draft law has a constructive goal—the development of philanthropy in sports—it requires substantial revision. This includes aligning provisions with budget legislation, defining clear criteria for receiving support, ensuring transparent financing mechanisms, and clarifying tax incentive instruments.
In view of this, UCIPR supports the recommendation of the specialized committee of the Verkhovna Rada to revise the draft law before its second consideration in the first reading.
Detailed analysis is available at the link.
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