Bulletin of Kharkiv National University of Internal Affairs
The offered headings of the Collection of scientific papers "Bulletin of Kharkiv National University of Internal Affairs" since 2019: «Theory and Philosophy of Law; Comparative Law; History of Law and State»; «Constitutional Law; Municipal Law»; «Civil Law and Civil Procedure; Family Law; International and Legal Direction in the Sphere of Private Law»; «Commercial Law; Commercial Procedural Law»; «Labor Law; Social Guaranteeing Law»; «Land Law; Agrarian Law; Environmental Law; Natural Resources Law»; «Administrative Law and Procedure; Financial Law»; «Criminal Law and Criminology; Penal Law»; «Criminal Procedure and Criminalistics; Forensic Examination; Operative and Search Activity»; «Judicial System; Procuracy and Legal Profession»; «International and Legal Area»; «Informational Law; Intellectual Property Law»; «National Security Law; Military Law»; «Topical issues of law enforcement activity»; «Psychological sciences». Every time participating in the contests for the best scientific, educational and periodical edition within the system of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Ukraine in the nomination “Scientific Journals” the scientific collection became the winner or awardee of the contest: 2008 it took the 3rd place; 2009 was the winner; 2011 again took the 3rd place; 2013 was the 2nd in the nomination.
Kharkiv National University of Internal Affairs
The Essence of the Mechanism for Ensuring the Rights, Freedoms, and Legitimate Interests of Individuals at the Pre-trial Investigation Stage
An analysis of the essence of the mechanism for ensuring the rights, freedoms and legitimate interests of individuals at the stage of pre-trial investigation has been carried out, taking into account contemporary challenges, in particular the digitalisation of legal relations, the impact of extraordinary legal regimes (martial law) and the integration of international legal standards into national legislation. The author’s vision of the structure of the mechanism for ensuring the rights, freedoms and legitimate interests of individuals, which includes both preventive and restorative guarantees, is proposed. Emphasis is placed on the need for their flexible adaptation to the latest social and legal realities. The expediency of expanding traditional approaches to understanding this mechanism by combining formal (procedural) guarantees with real instruments for their practical implementation is substantiated, which allows for a high level of human rights protection to be achieved. It has been proven that the mechanism for ensuring the rights, freedoms and legitimate interests of individuals at the pre-trial investigation stage is a complex, multi-level system that requires a comprehensive approach to the protection of human rights. It has been established that the effectiveness of the mechanism for ensuring rights and freedoms at the stage of pre-trial investigation is determined not only by the existence of relevant norms, but also by the effectiveness of controlling and supervisory institutions, the ability of the system to respond to new challenges and ensure a balance between the interests of the state, society and the individual. The mechanism for ensuring the rights, freedoms and legitimate interests of individuals at the pre-trial investigation stage has been defined as a comprehensive, multi-level system of interrelated regulatory, organisational, procedural, control and value elements that are integrated to ensure the effective guarantee, protection and defence of individual rights and freedoms, as well as to respond promptly to violations in criminal proceedings. It has been established that further improvement of the mechanism for ensuring the rights, freedoms and legitimate interests of individuals at the pre-trial investigation stage should be based on the interaction of legal, institutional and technological innovations, the formation of a culture of respect for human rights and the strengthening of the responsibility of state bodies for compliance with these standards.
Criminal Procedure and Criminalistics; Forensic Examination; OSA
freedoms and legitimate interests of individuals
Copyright (c) 2025 S. M. Danylo http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Tactical Peculiarities of Communication between Police Officers and People with Hearing Impairments
The paper examines ways in which police officers can overcome communication barriers when interacting with people with hearing impairments, particularly when such citizens seek assistance. It is noted that insufficient attention to the specifics of interacting with this category of persons may lead to violations of their rights and interests, as well as to a decrease in the effectiveness of law enforcement activities. The relevance of researching communication approaches is justified, given the growing number of persons with hearing impairments, especially in conditions of martial law. It is emphasised that studying this topic is not only a scientific necessity, but also a practical necessity for improving the professionalism of police officers in working with people who have special communication needs. A number of scientific methods were used to conduct the study: surveys, observations, comparisons, practical experiments, mathematical analysis, induction and deduction. It is proved that in order to overcome the communication barrier with people with hearing impairments, police officers can use various approaches, in particular: engage a sign language interpreter, apply their own knowledge of sign language, use available means to display text information, and establish psychological contact taking into account the specific situation, showing attention, sensitivity and patience. In addition, it is necessary to use a clear non-verbal system of information transfer (posture, gestures, facial expressions, visual contact, etc.). The results of the study show that knowledge of the basics of sign language by police officers significantly facilitates overcoming communication barriers with people with hearing impairments and also helps to reduce the time needed to obtain information in typical or extreme situations. It is emphasised that the lack of such knowledge can be compensated for by using the police officer's skills in applying effective non-verbal communication methods, which should be the subject of training, in particular when solving practical cases. It is noted that the acquisition of theoretical knowledge and practical skills by police officers in communicating with people with hearing impairments is an important element for the professional performance of police duties. Recommendations have been developed for non-verbal communication between police officers and people with hearing impairments.
Copyright (c) 2025 O. S. Sklіar http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Self-defence of Possession under the Current and Updated Provisions of the Civil Code of Ukraine
In the current civil legislation of Ukraine, the rules on self-defence of non-title possession are an underdeveloped institution. The critical remark concerns the absence in the Civil Code of Ukraine or other acts of civil legislation of both the legal definition of non-title possession and the norms that would declare general legal permission to exercise self-defence of possession, establish legal requirements for participants in such protection, and set legal limits on the use of certain methods of self-defence of possession by individuals. In view of this, the draft provisions of the updated Civil Code of Ukraine, which fill the above-mentioned gaps in civil legislation, deserve approval. At the same time, the work criticises certain draft rules of the updated Civil Code of Ukraine for their inconsistent application of legislative techniques. Based on the research conducted, the following conclusions have been made. Self-defence of possession is a means of counteraction, primarily of a factual nature, carried out by the possessor (a third party in the interests of the possessor) without recourse to jurisdictional bodies (officials), which is chosen by the subjects of this form of defence at their discretion, but taking into account the general and special civil law requirements imposed by the law on self-defence in general and self-defence of possession in particular. The object of self-defence of possession is the property and other property-related interests of possessors. The subjects of self-defence of possession can be both the possessors themselves and third parties acting in the interests of the possessors. The means of self-defence of possession must not contradict the imperative provisions of civil law, the general principles of private law, including the rules of good morals (boni mores), and they must be prompt (immediate) and proportionate (corresponding to the content of the possessory interests that are being violated, the nature of the actions by which they are being violated, and the consequences that are or may be caused by this violation). The need for further development (detailing) of the material on the formulation of criteria for the legitimacy of the application of self-defence of possession is emphasised, since the article focuses mainly on describing the general characteristics of self-defence of possession.
Civil Law and Civil Procedure; Family Law; International and Legal Direction in
general characteristics of self-defence of possession
self-defence of interests protected by law
non-jurisdictional protection of possession
protection of civil rights and/or interests protected by law.
Copyright (c) 2025 Yu. I. Chalyi http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Features of Establishing Circumstances Subject to Proof in Criminal Proceedings When Investigating Military Offences
The article is devoted to the peculiarities of establishing circumstances subject to proof in criminal proceedings when investigating military offences and examining the peculiarities of pre-trial investigation of military criminal offences in the context of armed aggression against Ukraine, in particular, unauthorised absence from a military unit or place of service and desertion. Attention is focused on the increase in the number of such offences in connection with the increase in personnel, the high intensity of combat operations and the psychological stress on military personnel. The legal nature of military crimes and their social danger, which manifests itself in an encroachment on the state's defence capability and military order, is revealed. The key circumstances to be established during the investigation of war crimes are analysed: type of service, unauthorised nature of leaving the unit, presence or absence of valid reasons for not reporting for duty, motive and purpose of the act, duration of absence, intent to evade service. Particular attention is paid to the distinction between short-term absence from duty and desertion as a crime with persistent intent. The importance of the testimony of fellow servicemen, analysis of military records and disciplinary materials is emphasised. The competence of the State Bureau of Investigations and new wartime legislation regarding the determination of jurisdiction are disclosed. The requirements of the European Court of Human Rights regarding the protection of the rights of military personnel even in wartime, in particular the prohibition of torture, violation of the right to life and the right to a fair trial, are highlighted. The need for specialised knowledge and coordinated cooperation between law enforcement agencies and military structures is outlined, and the key features of evidence in criminal proceedings concerning military offences are revealed. The complexity of establishing the circle of witnesses and eyewitnesses, clarifying the motives and objectives of unlawful actions, as well as investigating the manner of their commission and the means of their use, and the need to use expert knowledge in the fields of military service, criminal procedure, criminalistics and forensic examination are emphasised. In particular, the importance of cooperation between the National Police and the military command is highlighted.
Copyright (c) 2025 O. Ye. Soloviova http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Current Issues of Law Enforcement in the Context of Martial Law
The article analyses contemporary approaches to the concept of law enforcement, defining it in the context of the legal regime of martial law in Ukraine. It shows that, in a broad sense, this refers to the activities of all state bodies and non-governmental organisations to ensure the rights and freedoms of citizens, legality and law and order, taking into account the provisions of the legal regime of martial law. In a narrow sense, it is the work of specially authorised bodies aimed at protecting the rights and freedoms of citizens and maintaining legality within the limits of their powers and procedures established by law. The main features of law enforcement activities are identified and analysed, including: an authoritative nature, which involves the actions of bodies and officials on behalf of the state; law enforcement nature as the obligation to act on the basis of legal facts and legal norms for making decisions in legal cases; implementation exclusively through lawful measures of influence; performance of functions by state-authorised bodies at the expense of state finances and resources. It is shown that law enforcement practice in these conditions focuses on preventing threats to martial law, joint implementation of tasks with security and defence forces, ensuring public order, and maintaining law and order at the proper level. In the specific conditions of martial law, new areas of work are added: combating crimes against national security, countering terrorism, preventing violations that undermine the requirements of the legal regime of martial law, ensuring public safety and protecting the rights and freedoms of citizens against the backdrop of relevant challenges. The factors influencing the content and characteristics of law enforcement activities are analysed, and the complications of working conditions due to new threats and psychological difficulties caused by the war are highlighted. Functional factors include the expansion of powers, increased workload and the development of new forms of cooperation. Organisational factors include the need to create special units or engage individual specialists to perform tasks in wartime.
Copyright (c) 2025 N. V. Bobro http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The Institute of Deprivation of Citizenship in Ukraine: Historical and Legal Development, Current State and Prospects for Reform
The article provides a comprehensive analysis of the institute of deprivation of citizenship in Ukraine as a multifaceted legal phenomenon situated at the intersection of constitutional, administrative, and international law. The author explores the historical development of Ukrainian citizenship law, beginning with the nation-building processes of the early twentieth century, and traces the evolution of legal approaches to the deprivation of citizenship during both the Soviet and post-Soviet periods. It is emphasized that the Soviet model was repressive in nature, serving as a tool of political control, while the current Ukrainian legislation formally rejects the concept of deprivation of citizenship by introducing the notion of loss of citizenship. However, in practice, these concepts often overlap, creating legal ambiguity and procedural inconsistencies. The article thoroughly examines the existing legislation of Ukraine, including the provisions of the Constitution and the Law “On Citizenship of Ukraine”, identifying contradictions between the constitutional prohibition of deprivation of citizenship and administrative procedures governing the loss of citizenship. Particular attention is paid to the international legal framework — the 1961 Convention on the Reduction of Statelessness, the 1997 European Convention on Nationality, and the case law of the European Court of Human Rights. The author substantiates the need for the harmonization of Ukrainian law with these international standards and highlights the importance of ensuring the individual’s right to judicial protection in cases concerning citizenship status. The research formulates conceptual directions for reforming the institute of deprivation of citizenship in Ukraine. These include the legislative differentiation between “deprivation” and “loss” of citizenship, the introduction of judicial review of administrative decisions in this field, the creation of a unified state register of citizens, and the strengthening of safeguards against statelessness. The study concludes that reforming this legal institution will contribute to the consolidation of democratic statehood, the affirmation of the rule of law, and the effective fulfillment of Ukraine’s international human rights obligations.
Copyright (c) 2025 O. I. Radchenko http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Administrative and Legal Support in the Field of Housing Stock Restoration
This article is devoted to the analysis of administrative and legal support in the field of housing stock restoration. The research methodology is based on a system of philosophical, general scientific and special methods, in particular dialectical and formal-legal methods, as well as methods of analysis and synthesis. Administrative and legal support for the restoration of the housing stock is defined as a comprehensive system of organisational and managerial measures and regulatory and legal regulation for the implementation of mechanisms for the restoration of the housing stock (reconstruction, repair and renovation). It is substantiated that the organisational and managerial element of support includes the establishment of clear procedures for coordinating the actions of state authorities and local self-government bodies, defining the responsibilities and powers of participants in housing programmes, planning and implementing specific housing reconstruction projects, as well as ensuring interaction between public authorities, international organisations, construction contractors and the public. It is emphasised that the administrative and legal support for the restoration of the housing stock is aimed at optimising construction and reconstruction processes, simplifying the processing of permits and strengthening control over the effective use of financial resources, including international assistance. The practical significance of the research results lies in the possibility of using them in the development of a strategy for the restoration of the housing stock at the level of public administration programmes. It has been concluded that administrative and legal support in this area is a complex, coordinated system of management and regulatory and legal regulation of housing stock restoration. Promising areas for scientific research have been identified, in particular the study of administrative and legal support for control and monitoring of the implementation of housing stock restoration programmes.
Administrative Law and Procedure; Financial Law
Copyright (c) 2025 S. A. Maliar http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Features of Forensic Examination of Mobile Devices Running on the Android Operating System
This article is devoted to a comprehensive analysis of modern methods, challenges, and prospects for forensic examination of mobile devices running on the Android operating system. The architecture of the Android operating system is studied in detail as a fundamental factor determining the examination methodology. The evolution of file systems (from YAFFS2 to F2FS) and the application isolation mechanism (Application Sandbox) are considered. Particular attention is paid to the multi-level security system of the Android operating system, which combines protection at the application level, the operating system level (using SEAndroid mandatory control) and the hardware level through TrustZone technologies. Particular attention is paid to the analysis of the main challenges facing digital forensics specialists. One of them is data encryption at both the disk level (FDE) and the file level (FBE), which makes data virtually inaccessible without the appropriate decryption keys. In addition, the spread of biometric authentication, whose templates are stored in the isolated TrustZone environment, is a significant obstacle, as it also complicates access to data. An important technical problem is the TrustZone technology itself, which acts as a kind of “black box” for forensic experts. A classification of digital traces that may be available on mobile devices is provided, ranging from system artefacts and user data to information from messengers and network evidence. A comparative analysis of the tools used by experts in the field of digital forensics has been carried out. It is concluded that the choice of tool depends on the specific conditions of the investigation, as there is no universal method that would be effective in all cases. Attention is drawn to the need for clear regulation of the process of investigating digital evidence within the framework of current legislation, as well as the importance of ensuring appropriate standards for data storage and processing. Promising areas for development in the field are outlined, including the integration of artificial intelligence technologies for analysing large amounts of data, expanding research to new segments (in particular, the IoT), and the need for international cooperation to standardise forensic investigation methods and train qualified specialists. It is concluded that forensic examination of devices running on the Android operating system is a dynamic interdisciplinary field, the success of which requires in-depth technical knowledge, constant updating of methods, and a clearly structured systematic approach.
Copyright (c) 2025 V. S. Makarov http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Parties to a Contract for the Provision of Rehabilitation Services
This article is devoted to the characteristics of the parties to a contract for the provision of rehabilitation services. An analysis of the regulatory and legal acts governing legal relations in the field of healthcare and the provision of rehabilitation services is conducted. The work of the scholars researching the legal basis for the provision of rehabilitation assistance in Ukraine, in particular the civil law regulation of this sphere, is considered separately. The parties to the agreement on the provision of rehabilitation services, such as the customer and the contractor, are characterised. The requirements for rehabilitation institutions that can act as contractors under such an agreement are defined. It is emphasised that rehabilitation institutions must have the status of a legal entity and may operate on the basis of private, state or municipal ownership. It is noted that in order to carry out economic activities in the field of medical practice, rehabilitation institutions must obtain an appropriate licence. An important aspect is the availability of qualified rehabilitation specialists on the staff of such institutions. It is clarified that a contract for the provision of rehabilitation assistance may be concluded both by adult individuals and by parents of minors who need rehabilitation assistance. The rights of patients under such an agreement are outlined. It is noted that a patient may also be a foreign citizen who does not permanently reside in Ukraine. It is emphasised that a citizen of Ukraine, on the basis of an agreement on the provision of rehabilitation services, may receive rehabilitation services that are not included in the programme of state guarantees for medical care for the population. It is proposed to amend Article 22 of the Law of Ukraine “On Rehabilitation in the Field of Health Care”, in particular to provide for the right of a patient to conclude an agreement on the provision of rehabilitation services at their own expense. The prospects for further scientific research in the context of the article’s topic are outlined.
Copyright (c) 2025 O. V. Mozolevskyi http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Administrative and Legal Means of Ensuring State Information Security in Wartime
This article is devoted to the analysis of administrative and legal means of ensuring state information security in a state of martial law, particularly in the context of the current Russian-Ukrainian war. It examines the theoretical foundations of information security, key threats, organisational and legal mechanisms and means of their implementation aimed at protecting the national information space. It is noted that the relevance of the topic is due to the escalation of hybrid threats, where the information component plays a decisive role in ensuring national security and social stability. The theoretical foundations are based on the principles of confidentiality, integrity and availability of information (CIA model), adapted to wartime conditions, with integration into the national security system in accordance with the Law of Ukraine “On National Security of Ukraine”. The concepts of information warfare and resilience are considered, which include multi-level protection – from the individual to the state level. A review of scientific research demonstrates the evolution of approaches from theoretical concepts to practical recommendations. It is stated that threats to information security in 2025 include disinformation, propaganda, cyberattacks (DDoS, phishing, interference with critical infrastructure), as well as internal vulnerabilities such as low information culture and data leaks. Particular attention is paid to the latest cyber threats, including attacks using artificial intelligence, social engineering, and attacks on supply chains, which complicate the protection of critical infrastructure. It is emphasised that organisational and legal mechanisms cover the activities of the National Security and Defence Council of Ukraine, the State Service for Special Communications and Information Protection of Ukraine, the Security Service of Ukraine, as well as the regulatory and legal framework, including the Constitution of Ukraine, the relevant regulatory and legal framework, and the Decree of the President of Ukraine “On the Introduction of Martial Law in Ukraine” dated 24 February 2022 No. 64/2022. Measures are divided into administrative (media licensing, telethon), legal (criminal and administrative liability), technical (cyber protection, encryption, data backup) and social (media literacy, strategic communications). The Law of Ukraine “On Amendments to Certain Laws of Ukraine on Information Protection and Cyber Protection of State Information Resources and Critical Information Infrastructure” dated 27 March 2025 No. 4336-IX strengthens protection through standardisation and the creation of a national cyber incident response system. It is concluded that administrative and legal measures are a key element of national defence, but need to be improved through enhanced coordination, practical implementation and international cooperation with the EU and NATO. Relevant recommendations have been made, namely: the adoption of a special law, the creation of a single centre to counter disinformation, the development of cyber technologies, the conduct of regular media literacy training for the population, and the introduction of effectiveness audits. The need for a comprehensive approach to ensure the resilience of the information space by 2026 was emphasised, given the predicted growth of threats from artificial intelligence and cyberattacks.
administrative and legal means of ensuring state information security
state information security in conditions of martial law
Copyright (c) 2025 S. F. Konstantinov http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The Application of Polygraph Test Results in the Evidence Process
This article analyses the theoretical and practical aspects of using computerised polygraphs as a technical forensic tool in the evidence process in criminal proceedings. Based on an analysis of scientific sources and materials from judicial practice, the relevance of the study is justified in view of the updating of regulatory and legal acts, the need to unify the practice of conducting forensic psychological examinations using a polygraph, and the growing demand for the use of this tool in the activities of law enforcement agencies. It is noted that, despite the scientific and technological potential of the polygraph, its results are probabilistic in nature and cannot be considered conclusive evidence without strict procedural conditions being met. A study of regulatory sources has shown that there is currently a positive trend in the legal regulation of the use of computer polygraphs. At the same time, in practice, there is still a need to develop clear procedural guarantees regarding the admissibility and reliability of the results obtained, as well as methodological support for their evaluation using logical-probabilistic approaches. Based on a review of national and international experience in the use of polygraphs, as well as a study of the risks associated with technical errors, the influence of subjective factors on the interpretation of results, and the possibility of counteracting the examination by the examinee, criteria have been summarised that should be taken into account when verifying and evaluating the materials obtained. Based on an analysis of current judicial practice and changes to scientific and methodological documents, it has been concluded that further legitimisation of the polygraph in criminal proceedings is only possible if the procedure for its use is formalised, the assessment of results is methodologically justified, and the principles of adversarial proceedings are observed. It has been determined that the polygraph can be a useful auxiliary tool in psychological examination, but it requires critical evaluation and consideration of all factors that may affect its results.
Copyright (c) 2025 A. H. Vuima, V. O. Zlotnyk http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Methodology for Studying the Historical and Legal Foundations of Ukraine’s Housing Policy
This article is devoted to the methodology for studying the historical and legal foundations of Ukraine’s housing policy. The purpose of the article is to identify and justify the system of methods and methodological approaches used in the historical and legal study of the evolution of housing policy. The subject of the study is a set of methods and methodological approaches used to analyse the historical and legal foundations of Ukraine’s housing policy. The relevance of the study is determined by the need for scientific understanding of housing policy as a legal category in the context of establishing European standards of adequate living standards and social security. It is argued that housing policy is a complex interdisciplinary phenomenon that integrates legal, economic and sociological dimensions, and its study requires the integration of approaches from different sciences in order to develop an effective system for ensuring the human right to housing. The methodological basis of the study is a system of general scientific and special legal methods. In particular, the dialectical method made it possible to reveal the internal contradictions of the components of housing policy in the process of its historical evolution. Using a synergistic approach, it has been proven that housing policy is a certain system that develops under the influence of objective factors. It has been revealed that the axiological approach makes it possible to identify the fundamental values that shaped housing policy in different historical periods, as well as to trace their influence on the development of legal norms. It has been determined that the method of analysis allows identifying the key components and characteristics of a specific historical stage of development of housing policy as a legal category. It is concluded that the combination of historical-legal, comparative-legal and formal-legal methods allows reconstructing the dynamics of housing policy development, tracing the patterns of transformation of legal norms and assessing the effectiveness of various models of housing provision. The results of the study can be used in further historical and legal research and in improving the legal basis of Ukraine's housing policy.
Theory and Philosophy of Law; Comparative Law; History of Law and State
Copyright (c) 2025 I. P. Kharkevych http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Features of Remote Participation in Court Hearings under Martial Law in Ukraine
This article is devoted to defining the legal basis, procedure, and practical aspects of remote participation in court hearings under martial law in Ukraine, identifying the features of its application, outlining problems in law enforcement, and formulating possible solutions. It is noted that the introduction of martial law necessitates the adaptation of court activities and the provision of unhindered access to justice. The definition of the term “videoconference” and its characteristic features are provided. It is established that the consideration of cases via videoconference, which became widespread during the COVID-19 pandemic, has become an integral tool for implementing the principle of access to justice in the context of modern challenges and has demonstrated its practical effectiveness. The practice of the European Court of Human Rights confirms the legitimacy of this format, provided that procedural guarantees are observed. It is found that, in accordance with the law, not only the parties to the proceedings, but also witnesses, experts, interpreters and specialists may participate in court hearings remotely. Judges and secretaries may also participate remotely, as this does not violate Article 6 of the Convention for the Protection of Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms. It is stated that the decision to hold a court hearing via videoconference is made by the court on the basis of a relevant request from a party to the case, but the law does not provide grounds for refusing to grant such a request. An analysis of court decisions shows that one of the most common grounds for refusal is the lack of technical capacity in courts to hold hearings in this format. Attention is drawn to the lack of a uniform approach to granting motions to hold all court hearings via videoconference, which leads to different application of procedural law by courts and creates legal uncertainty for participants in the judicial process. It is concluded that there is a need for further regulatory regulation of the procedure and conditions for remote participation in court hearings, in particular clear grounds for refusing such requests, expanding the range of entities entitled to participate remotely, and modernising the technical infrastructure of courts.
Copyright (c) 2025 M. V. Shliakhovchuk http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Interaction in the course of Pre-trial Investigation of Criminal Offences Committed in the Sphere of Economic Activity Using Forged Documents
The study is devoted to a comprehensive analysis of the peculiarities of interaction in the course of pre-trial investigation of criminal offences committed in the sphere of economic activity using forged documents. The relevance of the topic is due to the increase in the number of such crimes, their transnational nature, the use of the latest technologies, and the need to ensure effective coordination between investigative, operational, expert, and supervisory bodies. The aim of the study is to identify the theoretical, legal and organisational aspects of interaction between participants in criminal proceedings and to develop practical recommendations for its improvement. The methodological basis consists of general scientific and special methods – systemic-structural, comparative-legal, formal-dogmatic, modelling, analysis and synthesis. The scientific basis of the study is formed on the basis of the works of Ukrainian and foreign scientists in the field of criminology, criminal procedure and the organisation of law enforcement agencies. The article substantiates the theoretical foundations of interaction between subjects of pre-trial investigation, reveals the essence of communication and coordination mechanisms, and characterises the forms of cooperation between investigative bodies and operational units, expert institutions, regulatory authorities and international law enforcement structures. Particular attention is paid to the role of expert research in proving document forgery, problems of procedural use of materials from operational and investigative activities, and issues of regulatory support for interaction. Current trends in the development of interaction are identified, including the digitisation of investigative activities, the introduction of information systems for data exchange, the strengthening of cybersecurity requirements, and the adaptation of investigation methods to the conditions of martial law. It is concluded that improving the effectiveness of cooperation is possible provided that the regulatory framework is improved, the organisational structure is optimised, international cooperation is developed, and the qualifications of participants in criminal proceedings are improved.
Copyright (c) 2025 V. K. Zherdev, M. Yu. Romanov http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Communities as Cybersecurity Actors: Education, Monitoring, and Responsibility in the Digital Environment
The article examines the current role of territorial communities as active actors in Ukraine's cybersecurity system. It focuses on the educational, monitoring and legal components of communities' activities in the digital environment, which are becoming key factors in shaping the state's cyber resilience. It is emphasised that with the development of e-government, digital services and online communications, communities can no longer remain passive users of technology, but must develop their own culture of security, responsibility and self-defence skills in cyberspace. It is argued that ensuring cybersecurity at the community level is integrated and covers several interrelated areas: technical protection of information systems, public education in the field of cyber hygiene, monitoring of digital threats, and the responsibility of officials for violations of information security rules. Particular attention is paid to the role of communities in spreading knowledge regarding safe online behaviour, preventing cybercrime, and countering disinformation and fake news. It is emphasised that it is at the local level that the population first interacts with the state's digital services, so communities are effectively the first line of defence in the field of cybersecurity. An important aspect of the study is the issue of legal and organisational responsibility. It is noted that local authorities should develop and implement local cyber security policies, create incident monitoring systems, and maintain cooperation with national cyber security structures such as CERT-UA, the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Ukraine, and the Security Service of Ukraine. A three-level model of interaction is proposed: education – monitoring – responsibility, which ensures not only the technical but also the social stability of the community's digital environment. It is concluded that the development of cyber culture at the community level is a necessary condition for building a national security system. Without the conscious participation of citizens, educational institutions, businesses, and local governments, it is impossible to create effective protection for the information space. It is emphasised that communities are not only objects of cyber protection, but also full-fledged subjects capable of acting proactively, introducing modern standards of digital security, ensuring public trust in the digital state and increasing the overall level of national cyber resilience.
Copyright (c) 2025 V. M. Vasylenko http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Prevention of Corruption-Related Criminal Offences in the State Penitentiary Service of Ukraine
The article examines the problem of preventing corruption-related crime in the State Penitentiary Service of Ukraine. It is noted that corruption-related crime has its own determinants of emergence and existence. It is stated that corruption offences in the state in general and in the penitentiary system in particular are a threat to the existence of society, a danger to its state and political organisation, i.e. to the existence of statehood. The main principles of anti-corruption policy, defined by the Anti-Corruption Strategy for 2021–2025, are considered. It is noted that today society has a fairly active demand for information on the state of corruption, the identification of the determinants of its commission, and the need to develop effective mechanisms to prevent and counteract this socially negative phenomenon in order to ensure the proper trust of citizens in the authorities and the law enforcement system. It is noted that the problem of corruption has been exacerbated by the introduction of martial law in connection with Russia's war against Ukraine. It is proved that corruption undermines trust in state institutions, hinders economic development and demoralises society. The existence of corruption in the State Penitentiary Service of Ukraine poses an increased public danger, as corruption offences violate the rights and freedoms of citizens who are isolated from society. Based on research into the legal and social nature of corruption, the concept of “corruption prevention in the State Penitentiary Service of Ukraine” has been defined as a set of systematic, interrelated and coordinated educational, legal and socio-economic measures whose main goal is to eliminate the determinants of corruption among officials of the State Penitentiary Service of Ukraine, as well as to create a social environment in which corruption is risky and morally unacceptable.
bodies and institutions of the State Criminal-Executive Service of Ukraine.
Copyright (c) 2025 S. V. Ivashko http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The European Integration Dimension of Legal Regulation of Ukraine’s Cooperation with the European Union in the Field of Security
The article examines the European integration dimension of legal regulation of Ukraine’s cooperation with the European Union in the field of security. The subject of the study is a set of constitutional, legal, international legal and practical aspects of Ukraine’s integration into the European security system, and the aim is to determine the impact of legal mechanisms of European integration cooperation on enhancing the state's defence capabilities and strengthening Ukraine’s international legitimacy. The methodological basis consists of an analysis of normative legal acts, a comparative legal approach, a systematic method, and the study of practical cases of cooperation. The relevance of the work is due to the intensification of global and regional threats to Ukraine’s national security as a result of the Russian Federation’s armed aggression in 2014 and 2022, which requires improving the legal basis for cooperation with the European Union and integration into European security mechanisms. The scientific novelty lies in a comprehensive understanding of the interconnection between constitutional and legal foundations, international legal norms and practical instruments of cooperation between Ukraine and the European Union (in particular, the Joint Security Commitments between Ukraine and the EU 2024, the European Peace Fund, the EU Military Assistance Mission to Ukraine (EUMAM), the EU Advisory Mission in Ukraine, and EU sanctions mechanisms) and determining their impact on the harmonisation of national security policy with European standards. The study found that the legal and institutional boundaries of Ukraine’s cooperation with the European Union ensure the coordinated implementation of the European integration course, increase the institutional compatibility of the security and defence sector, facilitate coordination with international partners and strengthen the state’s ability to counter modern external threats. The practical significance of the work lies in the possibility of using the findings to improve legislation and mechanisms of interaction in the field of security, increase the effectiveness of Ukraine’s integration into the European collective security system, and strengthen its international legitimacy. The results obtained can be applied in legislative, analytical and educational activities aimed at modernising the security and defence sector, training personnel and coordinating state policy in the field of European integration cooperation. The content of the results shows that the legal regulation of Ukraine’s cooperation with the EU in the field of security forms the normative basis for strengthening national security and integrating the state into the European security space.
Copyright (c) 2025 Yu. M. Kolomiyets http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Regulatory and Legal Support for the Formation and Implementation of Ukraine’s Gender Policy in 2020–2025: A Historical and Legal Review
The starting point of the article is the assertion that the current policy of ensuring equal rights and opportunities for women and men in Ukraine is based on a solid legal foundation and requires systematic improvement of regulatory and legal regulation as a result of the constant development of policies that respond to the requirements of European integration and problems in the socio-political, economic and other spheres of public life. It is emphasised that the effectiveness of political processes requires new approaches to the formation and implementation of public policy, in particular the application of the principle of gender mainstreaming, which consists in taking into account and implementing the gender component in all spheres of public administration. The purpose of the article is to analyse the state of comprehensive development of the legal framework for the formation and implementation of gender policy (policy to ensure equal rights and opportunities for women and men) as a cross-cutting component for various spheres of public administration in the period 2020–2025 in order to identify the main directions for its improvement. The object of the study is the development of the regulatory and legal framework for the formation and implementation of Ukraine's state gender policy. The research that formed the basis of the article has been carried out using dialectical and formal-logical approaches with the use of the following methods of scientific cognition: analysis (in particular, statistical and content analysis), synthesis, abstraction and generalisation. The theoretical aspects of the legal regulation of state gender policy have been studied using the doctrinal method, while the unevenness of the legal implementation of gender mainstreaming in various spheres has been determined through the use of the comparative method. The unity of the research and scientific forecasting of the effectiveness of the proposals made have been achieved through the use of the systemic-structural method and the method of legal modelling. Historical-legal and sociological-legal methods have also been applied. The work presents the results of a scientific analysis of the state and prospects of regulatory and legal regulation of equal rights and opportunities for women and men through the generalisation of relevant documents and regulatory and legal acts developed and adopted in 2020–2025. In addition, a review of the state of regulatory and legal support for gender policy from a historical perspective has been conducted, an analysis of gender mainstreaming as a new approach to the formation and implementation of legal support for gender policy has been carried out, and a scientific justification for promising areas of its development has been proposed.
equal rights and opportunities for women and men.
Copyright (c) 2025 K. B. Levchenko http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The Procedural and Legal Significance of a Response to an Appeal in Ukraine
This article is devoted to the procedural and legal significance of a response to an appeal in civil proceedings in Ukraine. It examines the peculiarities of preparing a response to an appeal. The researchers’ works devoted to the problems of appeal in civil proceedings in Ukraine are studied. It is indicated that the procedural significance of a response to an appeal in civil proceedings lies in the fact that the submission of such a response means that the other party disagrees with the appellant's claims set out in the appeal. It is established that a response to an appeal is a procedural document that is drawn up at the stage of appealing a decision of the court of first instance in accordance with the requirements of the Civil Procedure Code of Ukraine in the event of an objection by one of the parties to the proceedings against the claims of the appeal. The peculiarities of preparing and submitting a response to an appeal are determined. It is stated that the response should be submitted within the time limit set by the judge in the ruling on the opening of the appeal proceedings. It is emphasised that the refusal of a party to the case to prepare a response to the appeal does not prevent the review of the contested court decision. It is established that a response to an appeal may contain arguments in support of the legality and validity of the decision of the court of first instance or objections to the admissibility, reliability, sufficiency and relevance of the evidence submitted with the appeal. Attention is drawn to the fact that the arguments set out in the response to the appeal will depend on the subject matter of the dispute and the claims made by the plaintiff. Proposals are made to improve the legal regulation of the preparation and submission of responses to appeals. In particular, it is proposed to add a new provision to Article 360 of the Civil Procedure Code of Ukraine on the possibility of renewing the deadline for preparing a response to an appeal that has been missed for valid reasons. It is noted that it is advisable to establish the possibility of supplementing or amending a response to an appeal in the Civil Procedure Code of Ukraine.
Copyright (c) 2025 I. V. Beregovyi http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Criminalistic and Legal Aspects of Documenting the Crime of Deportation of Ukrainian Children as a Form of Genocide in the Context of Armed Aggression by the Russian Federation
The article provides a comprehensive study of the criminalistic, legal, and international legal aspects of documenting the crime of forced deportation of Ukrainian children committed during the armed aggression of the Russian Federation against Ukraine. It is noted that the forcible transfer of children from the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine to the Russian Federation and their subsequent detention in specialised institutions or foster families is systematic, organised and planned in nature, which corresponds to the characteristics of the crime of genocide as defined by the 1948 UN Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide. The current regulatory framework governing the prevention of crimes related to the illegal removal and detention of children is analysed, and problematic aspects of the legal classification of such acts under the Criminal Code of Ukraine are outlined. The provisions of international humanitarian law, in particular the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court, are considered in the context of international recognition of forced deportation as a war crime and a crime against humanity. Particular attention is paid to the criminalistic aspects of documenting this crime. Methods of collecting, recording and verifying evidence are considered, including the use of digital technologies, geolocation data, photo and video materials that allow the identification of the routes of movement and whereabouts of children. The peculiarities of interrogating victims, witnesses and persons involved in organising the deportation are analysed, taking into account the age and psychological characteristics of children as a vulnerable category of persons. The role and importance of international cooperation in documenting the facts of forced deportation is considered, in particular the activities of the Joint Investigation Team, the Office of the Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court, as well as special mechanisms of the UN and the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe. It is emphasised that cooperation between national and international institutions ensures an adequate level of evidence collection and increases the effectiveness of the process of bringing those responsible to justice at the national and international levels. It was concluded that the documentation of the crime of forced deportation of Ukrainian children should be based on a comprehensive combination of forensic and legal approaches that take into account international standards of evidence, children's rights and humanitarian principles. The need to improve national legislation regarding the classification of genocide as a crime is justified, as is the development of a unified methodology for the forensic documentation of such crimes in order to ensure the inevitability of punishment for the perpetrators and the restoration of justice for the child victims.
Copyright (c) 2025 O. P. Makarova, D. V. Kirika http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The Use of Virtual and Augmented Reality in Law Enforcement Training: An Interdisciplinary Review of Current Approaches and Empirical Findings
The study examines the use of virtual and augmented reality technologies in the professional training of security sector employees, in particular law enforcement officers. It is noted that the introduction of immersive technologies into the training system of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Ukraine and the National Guard of Ukraine is particularly relevant in the context of martial law and the transformation of the security environment. The experience of foreign countries and Ukraine in the use of virtual and augmented reality technologies in training programmes for preparation for actions in stressful, crisis and combat situations is analysed. It is determined that the use of such technologies contributes to the formation of stress resistance, the development of reflective thinking, teamwork skills and communicative flexibility. The methodological basis of the study consists of systematic and comparative methods, content analysis of scientific and practical sources, as well as a summary of international experience in the implementation of virtual and augmented reality technologies in the training of police officers and military personnel in the United States, Canada, European Union countries, Israel, the United Arab Emirates, and Ukraine. The scientific novelty of the study lies in the systematisation of international experience in the use of immersive technologies in the training of law enforcement officers and the development of an author's methodological scheme for the integration of virtual and augmented reality technologies into the professional education system of the security sector in Ukraine. The results of the study can be used to create a national methodological base for virtual and augmented reality technologies in education, develop training programmes and train instructors in the use of immersive technologies. It was concluded that training using virtual and augmented reality technologies increases the effectiveness of decision-making in crisis situations, reduces the risk of professional burnout, and contributes to the formation of professional readiness of law enforcement officers to act in conditions of uncertainty and danger. It is emphasised that the integration of such technologies into the training of law enforcement officers is a strategic direction for the development of security education in Ukraine, which requires adequate scientific, methodological, technical and institutional support.
Copyright (c) 2025 O. P. Liaska http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Forensic Intelligence Based on Photo Image Analysis
The article continues the study of theoretical and practical aspects of such an information and analytical process as forensic intelligence. It is considered as a separate type of criminal analysis carried out by a person (subject) who has special knowledge in the field of forensic examination or with the involvement of such a person. Forensic intelligence based on photo image analysis combines elements of analytical, expert and operational-investigative activities, ensuring the systematisation and evaluation of criminally significant information to improve the effectiveness of investigations. The concept of “forensic intelligence based on the analysis of photographic images’’ is defined as a type of criminal analysis that involves the systematic collection, processing, evaluation and interpretation of visual data using specialised knowledge in the field of portrait and photographic expertise. It is emphasised that the involvement of an expert ensures the objectivity and evidential value of the results obtained. At the same time, automated recognition systems should be considered only as an auxiliary tool that requires mandatory expert verification. Domestic and foreign experience has been analysed, in particular the use of OSINT methods, artificial intelligence technologies and face recognition systems in forensic practice. The main stages of forensic investigation using photographic images have been identified, from the collection of materials and initial processing to their verification and the formation of analytical conclusions. It is concluded that the further development of this area requires the creation of a unified methodological base, improvement of interaction between analytical and expert units, expansion of technical capabilities and a system for training specialists. This will contribute to the formation of an effective national model of forensic intelligence that is compatible with international standards.
Copyright (c) 2025 O. A. Kozhevnikov http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Counteracting Bullying in Higher Education Institutions Against People with Disabilities
The article is devoted to the topical issue of counteracting bullying in higher education institutions against people with disabilities. With the active implementation of inclusive education in Ukraine, the issue of ensuring a safe educational environment for students with disabilities is becoming particularly relevant. Despite the existence of regulatory and legal acts and state support programmes, this category of students remains vulnerable to discrimination and psychological violence, which is exacerbated by the state of martial law. The aim of the study is to analyse the psychological characteristics of bullying in the student environment and to identify effective ways of preventing it, using the example of the Open International University of Human Development “Ukraine”. The research analysed scientific literature, identified methodological tools, conducted empirical research, and developed practical recommendations for the prevention of bullying. The author's concept is based on the idea of creating a safe, accessible, and supportive educational environment for students with disabilities. It has been established that manifestations of bullying against persons with disabilities have their own specific features – verbal abuse, social exclusion, cyberbullying. The issue of bullying in higher education institutions with regard to this category of students remains insufficiently researched, which necessitates the improvement of preventive measures. The empirical part of the study included questionnaires, projective techniques, and diagnosis of aggression among students with disabilities aged 18 to 19. The results showed that 12.9 % of the students surveyed had experienced bullying in higher education institutions, and 61.3 % had experienced humiliation throughout their lives. The most common forms of bullying were verbal abuse and harassment on social media. The study also revealed the low effectiveness of adults’ responses to bullying. Based on the results of the study, ways to prevent bullying in higher education institutions were proposed: raising awareness of students and teachers about the problem of bullying, developing adapted procedures for responding to its manifestations, and introducing training aimed at developing empathy, tolerance, and social responsibility. The need for further theoretical and applied research is emphasised in order to gain a deeper understanding of the problem and develop comprehensive support programmes for students with disabilities in the educational environment.
Copyright (c) 2025 I. V. Kushchenko, O. L. Matsiuk, A. M. Palii http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Mandatory Participation of a Psychologist During the Interrogation of a Minor
The article is written in order to study the features of the interrogation of minors, namely the definition of specific specialists who must be present during the interrogation. The norms of the current criminal procedure legislation and the work of domestic scientists who considered the outlined issue are analyzed. The article highlights the author’s vision of specifying some norms of procedural legislation. Ways of improving the legislation regulating the participation of a specialist during the interrogation of minors are proposed. Based on the analysis, it is determined that in most cases it is advisable to involve a psychologist during the interrogation of a minor. A psychologist is a specialist who understands the psycho-emotional processes of children. The teacher, unlike the psychologist, should teach children, give them knowledge. During interrogation, the psychologist helps the investigator formulate questions that should be asked to the minor. Such a specialist can help create a trusting environment during interrogation and prevent pressure on the child or intimidation. The current Criminal Procedure Code of Ukraine does not contain a specific definition of which specialist should be chosen to conduct investigative actions with the participation of a minor. The legislator left this choice to the investigator. The investigator determines who to invite - a psychologist or teacher. That is why sometimes the presence of a teacher who does not understand child psychology becomes a simple formality. The lack of the necessary specialist negatively affects the results of the interrogation. According to the author, special attention should be paid to the choice of a psychodog if the child is a victim in a criminal case. Incorrectly asked questions or conducted investigative actions can harm the child, force him to mentally return to the crime. Such testimony and evidence may be false or have no evidentiary value to the case. Also, incorrect actions on the part of the investigator can harm the psychological state of the child. It should be noted that in order to establish the necessary psychological contact, to ensure a benevolent atmosphere when interrogating persons who committed a socially dangerous act before they reach the age of criminal responsibility, as well as those who have reason to consider mentally retarded, it is more expedient to involve a psychologist rather than a teacher.
Copyright (c) 2025 Yu. K. Doroshenko http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The Right to an Adequate Standard of Living in the Context of the 2025 US Global Trade Wars
This article examines the impact of the new US trade policy architecture in 2025 on social and economic human rights, in particular the human right to an adequate standard of living. It highlights the existing internal conflict between the logic of protectionism and the positive obligations of the state to preserve the material basis for a decent standard of living, non-discrimination against vulnerable groups of the population, and adherence to the principle of gradual realisation of rights without neglecting their minimum essential core. The analytical framework of the article integrates a law enforcement approach with economic modelling. This allows tracking the channels of price transfer from customs policy to final prices for consumer goods through imported components, logistics costs and trade mark-ups. It is shown that the accumulation of tariff impulses in conditions of increased control over small parcel traffic and limited competition in certain market sectors escalates the likelihood of a regressive distribution of the burden and creates real problems in access to basic goods for low-income households. The need to comply with the criteria of legitimacy and proportionality for such measures is justified: clear time limits and reversibility, the obligation to prove the necessity of such measures, extraterritorial caution regarding the accompanying effects on third countries, as well as the availability of guarantees for the prompt review of such measures. It is proposed to operationalise monitoring by comparing commodity codes with specific items in the consumer basket in order to continuously track incidence by population categories according to wealth, including the identification of essential items. A range of corrective mechanisms has been outlined that have the potential to neutralise price transfer chains without harming policy objectives: exemptions for certain categories of goods, quotas for critical goods, compensation for low-income households, allocation of additional customs revenues to maintain the availability of essential consumer goods, and simplification of procedures in the postal and courier channel. It was concluded that these conditions must be met in order to avoid direct violations of the human and civil right to an adequate standard of living.
Copyright (c) 2025 V. V. Maltsev http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Features of Rock Research During Forensic Soil Examination
The features of forensic research of rock fragments are determined, taking into account the specifics of expert examination of objects as multicomponent systems. Soil heterogeneity is caused by two reasons. The first is the nature of soil components. Most objects of soil and mineral origin are polymineral and consist of different components, each of which is characterised by different nature and properties. The main criteria (requirements) that must be taken into account during comparative forensic examination of rocks and other multicomponent systems are presented. The most common multicomponent systems found in soils include rocks, anthropogenic slags, and hydraulic binder-based building materials. The second reason is that most soil indicators depend on mechanical (granulometric) composition. When conducting forensic soil examinations in comparative studies of rock fragments and other multicomponent systems (slags, building materials) in order to obtain objective and reliable results, the following two requirements must be met: firstly, to examine fractions of the same size, and secondly, to examine all components of the objects presented separately. The smallest fractions of objects of soil and mineral origin (clay fractions of soils, finely dispersed fractions of binding components of building mortars) are the most homogeneous in chemical composition and therefore must be studied quantitatively. Large fractions (sandy fractions in soils, sandy-crushed fillers of building mortars), on the contrary, are very heterogeneous and must be examined for their qualitative composition. The study of the most common rocks does not go beyond the special knowledge of an expert in the expert specialty 8.8 ‘Soil Research’, but the establishment of the brand or other technological indicators of the prepared commercial product, as well as the determination of its scope of application, cannot be resolved within the framework of a forensic soil examination.
Copyright (c) 2025 V. M. Shevchenko http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
European standards for DNA databases and directions for their implementation in Ukraine
The article discusses European standards for DNA records and directions for their implementation in Ukraine. It has been established that automatic access by European Union countries to national genetic databases became possible thanks to the 2005 Prüm Treaty, which formulates the basic principles for the exchange of DNA profiles. In June 2008, the Council of the European Union transformed the Prüm Treaty into EU legislation (The EU Prüm Decision). Further details on the procedures for exchanging genetic information are provided in the relevant EU regulations and directives. Regulation (EU) 2024/982 (Prüm II) stipulates that Europol, of which Ukraine is a member, has the right to search the databases of Member States on the basis of information received from the authorities of third countries. Legal, organisational and technical standards for the creation, operation and use of DNA records are set out in the recommendations of the European Network of Forensic Science Institutes (ENFSI), the official advisory body of the European Union on forensic science. According to ENFSI recommendations, as many individuals as possible should be included in the DNA database to increase the likelihood of identifying donors of biological samples. The main sources for the creation of DNA profiles are traces from crime scenes, reference profiles of known individuals (convicts, suspects, arrested persons, volunteers), victims, missing persons, and exclusion profiles. If a person refuses to voluntarily provide biological samples, there is a possibility of their compulsory collection. The legal criteria for including convicted persons, suspects or arrested persons in the national DNA database are usually either specific types of crimes or the maximum punishment provided by law for their commission. The existence and continuous updating of a genetic database is a mandatory requirement for European Union member states, as defined by the Prüm Treaty. For Ukraine, the creation and operation of an electronic register of genomic information is important not only for improving the effectiveness of law enforcement agencies in combating crime, but also in the context of our country’s further integration into the European legal and security community.
Copyright (c) 2025 O. A. Lozovyi http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Consideration of Retrospectivity in Judicial Commodity Expertise
Retrospective assessment is a study conducted on the basis of specialised knowledge in the field of commodity science, which involves determining a specific set of characteristics of an object sufficient to establish its market value on a specific date in the past. This is a labour-intensive process based on knowledge of general economic patterns, theoretical principles of commodity science and the practical skills of a commodity expert. Avoiding mistakes when conducting a forensic commodity expertise with a view to retrospectivity will help improve the quality of expert work, ensure proper interaction between experts and enterprises, institutions and organisations regardless of their form of ownership, and reduce the number of reports on the impossibility of conducting an expertise. This, in turn, will contribute to establishing the objective truth in court cases and increasing the effectiveness of independent assessment. The article clarifies the peculiarities of taking into account retrospectivity when conducting a judicial commodity expertise, analyses the main difficulties that arise in practice when evaluating objects on a date other than the date of the study. A number of practical and effective tools for solving typical expert tasks are proposed, and the basic conditions, limitations and assumptions for performing retrospective property valuation are defined. The feasibility of using both direct and indirect research methods is justified. Practical recommendations are provided for forensic institutions on improving the effectiveness of retrospective studies, improving organisational procedures and the correctness of the expert's conclusion, which ensures its evidential value in court proceedings.
economic and statistical (index) research method
method taking into account currency exchange rates.
Copyright (c) 2025 S. O. Diachuk http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The Hidden Reasons for the Defeat of the Red Army in Galicia and Volyn in June-July 1941
One of the most tragic and difficult to comprehend pages in the history of World War II is the defeat of the Southwestern Front of the Red Army in September 1941. This article attempts to explain why the largest Soviet military group, which was equal in size to Army Group South and had superiority in tanks, aircraft and artillery, suffered crushing defeats in Galicia and Volhynia. Understanding the underlying causes of these events and assessing them comprehensively is important for contemporary historiography. One of the key hidden factors behind the Red Army’s catastrophic defeats in Ukraine in the summer of 1941 was the shortage of personnel and the de-intellectualisation of the command structure, which led to a significant decline in the level of strategic leadership. It has been established that Soviet troops were insufficiently prepared for the realities of modern mechanised warfare – motorised warfare. Inefficient use of equipment, lack of interaction between units, poor coordination of actions, misjudgement of the operational situation and lack of strategic vision led to massive losses of personnel and equipment. A comparison with the Wehrmacht showed a significant professional advantage of the German command staff, who had in-depth special training and combat experience in modern warfare. In contrast, Soviet units were mainly led by individuals without the necessary experience and education: among the senior command, 57.6 % were under 45 years of age, and 75 % had been in their positions for less than a year. The poor professional training of most commanders made the Soviet troops difficult to control. Mistakes in planning and an inability to command large mechanised units led to disorganisation, loss of morale and heavy casualties. Of the 170 divisions of the Southwestern Front (2.9 million people), 28 were completely destroyed, 70 lost more than half of their personnel and equipment, and only 259 of the 4,785 tanks remained in service.
Copyright (c) 2025 O. K. Maliutina, K. Z. Maliutin http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Narcotic Drugs as Objects of Forensic Investigation: Trends in the Context of the War in Ukraine
Amidst large-scale Russian aggression against Ukraine, there has been a steady trend towards an increase in drug-related crime, particularly due to the illegal manufacture and sale of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances. There has been a gradual transformation in the types of drugs seized from illegal circulation. Cannabis remains the most common substance in the group of narcotic drugs. On the other hand, the volume of cocaine and heroin seizures and forensic examinations has decreased significantly, as has the amount of poppy straw and acetylated opium. At the same time, the number of detections of tramadol and other potent medicines has increased. Among psychotropic substances, the number of detected samples of LSD and synthetic cannabinoids is decreasing, while the frequency of detection of amphetamine, methamphetamine, and especially synthetic cathinones, the largest share of which is α-pyrrolidinopentiophenone, is increasing. It is evident that the war has led to a reconfiguration of the routes for the illicit trafficking of heroin and cocaine outside Ukraine. The demand for narcotics is mainly met by domestic production of cannabis, amphetamine, methamphetamine, synthetic cathinones, as well as abuse of pharmaceutical drugs (methadone, tramadol, etc.). The priorities of law enforcement agencies are gradually shifting from focusing on minor arrests to identifying drug laboratories, drug dens and distribution channels, which can generally be seen as a positive trend. It is likely that under martial law and after the end of hostilities, domestic demand for drugs will continue to grow, particularly among people who need treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder and pain syndrome, or as a result of addiction developed during the war. Given the low income levels of the population, demand will focus on cheap synthetic drugs. To minimise harm in such a situation, it is advisable to ensure orderly and controlled access for patients to potent drugs, develop substitution maintenance therapy programmes, legalise medical cannabis, and develop a rehabilitation system for military personnel returning to civilian life.
Copyright (c) 2025 R. L. Stepaniuk, S. M. Lozova http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0