Ukraine’s reforms on the rule of law have stagnated

Ukrainian Ambassador to the UK, Natalia Galibarenko

 

Dear Sir,

Regarding your article “Ukraine’s reforms on the rule of law have stagnated” (13 September, 2017), I would argue that “since mid-2016 the speed of reforms has slowed notably and can now be said to be stagnating”. As you have acknowledged in your article, Ukraine’s economy has been growing significantly since a dramatic recession caused by the Russian aggression in 2014. All our major partners and respected financial institutions unanimously say that the Government of Ukraine has been able to achieve macroeconomic stabilization. Besides, I am proud to say that Ukraine is seen to have most improved its ease of doing business, according to the recent report of the World Bank. It will be illusory to say that the economic growth in Ukraine is not linked with progressive elimination of old corrupted schemes, decayed procurement system and protection racketeering.

Regarding the work of anti-corruption bodies, I would like to note that they have already sent to courts more than 300 cases worth more than 2 bln. USD. Besides, introduction of electronic declarations of assets for all public servant has led to the fact that 20% of Ukrainian judges have immediately resigned.

No one is immune from prosecution. Civil activists are not exception if they commit legal wrongs. And I am surprised that you mentioned the name of Mikheil Saakashvili has been put in one row with those who are being targeted by Ukrainian authorities. I would like to note that his citizenship was withdrawn on the basis of a wrong information deliberately submitted by him. Besides, he has recently committed a crime when illegally crossed the state border of Ukraine.

In conclusion I would like to note that we certainly have our homework to do to achieve further progress on reforms and comply with our international obligations. European partners support us on our way. We have no illusions that we would not get the necessary assistance, including financial one, if we fail. And I am glad, that our notable progress has, in particular, been acknowledged at the Ukraine Reform Conference, hosted by the UK Government in July which was attended by representatives of more than 40 foreign governments and international organizations. 

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