Joint co-operation between the European Union, the Council of Europe and Ukraine continues to underpin reforms that strengthen the justice system, counter economic crime, promote equality and improve women’s access to justice. At the Local Steering Committee meeting held in Kyiv on 6 May 2026, under the third phase of the “Partnership for Good Governance”, Ukrainian institutions’ representatives and international partners reviewed progress and agreed on priorities for the period ahead.
The programme is contributing to a more transparent, effective and rights-based justice system. Judges and court staff of the Constitutional Court are increasingly applying European standards in their daily work, including through growing references to the case law of the European Court of Human Rights in the Court’s decisions. The introduction of Rules of Judicial Ethics marks an additional step towards strengthening public confidence in the judiciary.
At the same time, progress in preventing and combating economic crime has enhanced the resilience of Ukraine’s financial system. Capacities of institutions have been strengthened in line with international standards, including MONEYVAL recommendations. The introduction of risk-based supervision and improved co-operation between public authorities, financial institutions and civil society are contributing to a more effective response to money laundering.
Addressing hate speech is high on the agenda of the joint programme. Ukraine is developing its policy and legal framework to tackle hate-motivated incidents, including through a national strategy focused on the protection of minorities. Practical tools have been introduced to support identification and monitoring of cases, while journalists and media professionals have strengthened their capacities for responsible reporting. Civil society organisations have also contributed through the development of counter-narratives.
Ensuring women’s equal access to justice remains a cross-cutting priority. Judges and prosecutors have strengthened their capacity to apply gender equality standards, contributing to a more gender-sensitive justice system. Ukraine also continues to engage in regional co-operation to improve women’s access to justice, including exchanges between judicial training institutions across the Eastern Partnership.
The Local Steering Committee meeting confirmed the results achieved under the profoundly adverse operational conditions imposed by the Russian Federation's ongoing war of aggression. It is a compelling testament to the resilience and unwavering commitment of all Ukrainian authorities involved. The European Union and the Council of Europe will continue to support Ukraine in advancing reforms on its path to the European Union and in line with European standards.
Ukraine country page on "Partnership for Good Governance" website
Information about the "Partnership for Good Governance" joint programme
Council of Europe Office in Ukraine website
This event is part of the European Union and Council of Europe joint programme “Partnership for Good Governance”, co-funded by the European Union and the Council of Europe, and implemented by the Council of Europe.
