The Veterans Fund conducted research on the issue of discrimination within the Armed Forces of Ukraine focusing on various social groups

With the support of the "Ukrainian Veterans Fund," an extensive study was conducted to examine discrimination within the Armed Forces, particularly concerning various social groups such as national minorities, women, former convicted veterans, and members of the LGBT community.

The study comprised two components:

• A nationwide survey involving 2,000 participants aged 18 and above.
• Qualitative research involving focus group discussions and in-depth interviews with a total of 38 individuals, including female and male military personnel as well as LGBT military personnel.

The results of the national survey indicate a generally positive attitude in society towards all categories of individuals serving in the Armed Forces of Ukraine. The prevailing opinion suggests the absence of discrimination experienced by these groups during military service. However, when comparing the different categories, some differences are noticeable. While minimal expectations of discrimination exist regarding national minorities in the Armed Forces, over 40% of respondents express concerns about potential discrimination against the LGBT community. Approximately one-fourth of the respondents mention possible discrimination against women and former convicted veterans.

The majority of respondents believe that anyone who is psychologically and morally prepared and willing to serve should be allowed to do so, with restrictions only based on age and health. Some participants argue that those who are caught engaging in questionable behavior, such as being involved in nightclub incidents, would provide little benefit to the military. Homophobic views were expressed by some members of the command staff, cautioning against LGBT individuals serving. Occasional reservations were voiced regarding women with multiple children or whose husbands are already serving. Mentions of restrictions were made in relation to drug addicts and alcoholics, while national minorities were rarely mentioned.

During the focus group discussions and interviews, military participants most frequently highlighted potential discrimination against women (mentioned by both women and occasionally by men), the LGBT community (often mentioned due to the association between "LGBT" and "discrimination" in public consciousness), and even vegans (due to perceived dietary restrictions). Other sensitive groups were not commonly mentioned.

Overall, there is a perception that the situation regarding inequality and discrimination has improved, particularly in the past year. Relative improvements were noted for women, while national minorities were not considered a highly sensitive topic as participants rarely mentioned it. The same applied to former convicted veterans, except for those with severe charges. The only group that continued to be perceived as experiencing discrimination was the LGBT community. Biased and distorted ideas about the behavior and values of LGBT individuals, influenced by societal beliefs, were also noted.

For more information, the full study can be accessed on the website of the Ukrainian Veterans Fund.