Couples with children under one year old will be able to divorce: The Rada has adopted a draft law.

The draft law on combating domestic violence has been approved

The Verkhovna Rada has adopted a draft law aimed at combating domestic violence and violence based on gender. 285 deputies voted in favor of this draft law. The project provides for the introduction of measures to prevent violence, such as educational campaigns and preventive programs.

As a result of the adoption of the law, courts will not conduct reconciliation between spouses in divorce cases if one of the partners has committed domestic violence. The aim of the law is to punish perpetrators who try to evade responsibility by reconciling with the victim.

Ease of divorce for victims of violence

According to the new law, couples with a child under 1 year old or those who are pregnant and have become victims of violence will be able to divorce regardless of the circumstances. Previously, courts did not allow this category of couples to dissolve their marriage.

Measures related to the ratification of the Istanbul Convention

The draft law was considered in connection with the ratification of the Istanbul Convention, which aims to prevent and combat violence against women and domestic violence. This law is intended to implement the obligations undertaken by Ukraine upon joining the convention.

Decline in marriages and increase in divorces

According to the Ministry of Justice, in the first half of 2024, the number of marriages decreased by 15%, while the number of divorces increased by 1.5 times compared to the previous year.

Sharp decline in birth rates and increased mortality

It is also important to note that in Ukraine, the birth rate is significantly lower than the mortality rate. During the first half of 2024, 87,655 newborns were born, which is 9% less than in the same period last year. At the same Time, 250,972 deaths were recorded.