Verkhovna Rada changes schedule of plenary sessions in September
The Verkhovna Rada has updated its September plenary session schedule. Instead of holding plenary sessions on September 24-26, MPs will now meet on September 17-19. The change is due to ongoing work on the 2025 draft budget. A brief session is also planned for September 23 to vote on resolutions that are currently blocking the budget process.
USAID RADA: Next Generation promotes improving Ukrainian legislation on domestic violence, university autonomy, and protection of labor rights
On September 10-11, the Democratic Initiatives Foundation (DIF), a Program subgrantee, hosted a series of events aimed at improving Ukrainian legislation. The first roundtable, “Resisting Domestic Violence: Improving Bill No. 10249,” presented research and recommendations for enhancing the bill based on expert input and public opinion. Participants agreed to proceed with the adoption of the bill, incorporating DIF's recommendations to reduce the risk of repeated domestic violence. At the second roundtable, “University Autonomy and Student Choice: What's Next for Bill No. 10177?,” DIF identified shortcomings in the bill and discussed the need to postpone the cancellation of part-time and evening education during martial law. The Deputy Minister of Education promised to address these issues. On September 11, DIF held two more events. The first, “Labor Rights of Persons with Disabilities: Improving Bill No. 5344-d,” led to further collaboration between MP Halyna Tretiakova and NGO Fight For Right to amend workplace accommodations for persons with disabilities. The second event, “Transparency and Integrity of the Bureau of Economic Security: Next Steps for Law No. 10439,” called for clearer criteria for the recertification of law enforcement employees.
USAID RADA: Next Generation conducts lectures on EU integration for VRU
On September 11th, USAID RADA: Next Generation conducted the final lecture in a series on EU integration for VRU staffers, featuring guest lecturer Professor Adam Lazowski, who spoke on the topic of EU institutions and ways of conducting interparliamentary cooperation. In total, more than 50 participants attended each lecture; 18 participants received attendance certificates for taking part in all three lectures.
USAID RADA: Next Generation promotes work-life integration practices for VRU staffers
On September 10, USAID RADA: Next Generation conducted a workshop on time management work-life integration for 26 representatives of the VRU and VRU Research Service. The workshop was aimed at achieving clarity in defined values, goals and priorities in business, while introducing effective tools for managing goals, priorities, and planning.
USAID RADA: Next Generation helps VRU staffers work remotely
On September 11-12, USAID RADA: Next Generation conducted two online training sessions titled “Interactive Tools for Remote Work: Zoom” for Committee Secretariats Staff and the Main Computerized Department of the VRU. The training sessions attracted more than 110 participants, equipping them with essential skills for effective remote collaboration and virtual meetings. This initiative highlights Program’s dedication to enhancing the digital proficiency of VRU staff in a rapidly evolving work environment. USAID RADA: Next Generation also provided 25 Zoom licenses to the VRU Committees. This initiative ensures that parliamentary activities can continue seamlessly, supporting the Committees in their essential legislative functions. The provision of these licenses underscores Program's commitment to facilitating effective and secure communication within the VRU as it adapts to the evolving demands of remote work.
USAID RADA: Next Generation secures contract to fortify VRU's cyber infrastructure
In a significant move to bolster the cybersecurity framework of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine, USAID RADA: Next Generation signed a contract to supply 5,707 software licenses. The software licenses, acquired as part of the VRU’s Security Operation Center deployment planned for September 2024, encompass a range of applications, including advanced security solutions, video conferencing tools, internal system protection, and mail server management. This acquisition marks a critical step in enhancing the VRU’s cyber defenses, ensuring secure communications and safeguarding essential internal systems. This initiative reflects Program's ongoing commitment to strengthening the VRU's operational resilience in an increasingly complex digital environment.
USAID RADA: Next Generation supports international cooperation between parliamentary educational centers
On September 13, USAID RADA: Next Generation supported the Parliamentary Educational Centre and the Agency for Educational Policy Development in holding a Special International Online Event to mark the International Day of Democracy. The event showcased best practices for parliamentary engagement with children and youth, including the presentation of a comprehensive study on youth participation, particularly through Youth Parliament formats. The event gathered teachers, schoolchildren, Members of the Ukrainian Parliament, representatives from the Verkhovna Rada, NGOs specializing in youth civic education, and educational institutions from US, Great Britain and Austria. This initiative aimed to highlight and promote the importance of engaging younger generations in parliamentary processes and democratic governance.