Parliament Approves Rules for Utilizing Property of Individuals and Legal Entities During State of Emergency

On October 27, the Parliament convened an extraordinary session and approved the proposed legislative drafts with 71 votes in favor, 0 against, and 0 abstentions, which relate to the territorial defense forces and the necessary logistical support during a state of emergency.

The amendments to the law on the "State of Emergency" propose to clarify the rules for utilizing the property of individuals and legal entities when there is no corresponding state property available. The valuation of the property will consider, among other factors, the specific situation, urgency, location of the property, and other significant circumstances. The state will present the property owner with justifications regarding the process, and if the owner does not voluntarily surrender it, the property may be seized forcibly. After the conclusion of the state of emergency, the property will be returned to the owner, with compensation measures specified.

The subsequent legislative amendment concerns the territorial defense forces. The rationale for the proposal states that "the study of potential adversaries' military operations shows that the center of gravity of military operations may shift deep into the country's territory, involving sabotage, terrorist, reconnaissance, or special operations forces, and other actions, as well as groups infiltrated by enemy armed forces. To counter, neutralize, and eliminate these threats, it is necessary to create a combined group of forces and means operating under unified command—territorial defense forces."

Due to the establishment of territorial defense forces, necessary changes are also being made to local self-governance laws. The Parliament also approved a draft convention on the recruitment, use, financing, and training of mercenaries.