The Ukrainian Bar Association (UBA) is the biggest non-governmental, non-profit organisation which unites lawyers from all areas of the legal profession in Ukraine.

Our values are respect for the rule of law, protection of human rights, development of the legal profession and upholding the professional rights of lawyers, and at present – resisting the aggression against Ukraine on the legal front.

Over the years, UBA has focused on uniting the country's legal community and being its strong voice. The UBA has fostered professional growth, facilitated experience exchange, led expert opinions, contributed to law-making and developed international legal cooperation.

The full-scale Russian invasion has shifted some of UBA’s activities. To defend the country legally, we initiated actions to counter Russian aggression and hold those guilty of international crimes accountable. Our key priorities in this area include:

• Advocating for a Special Tribunal for the crime of aggression against Ukraine;
• Collecting evidence of war crimes by Russian invaders;
• Promoting effective compensation mechanisms for damages caused by Russian aggression.

Simultaneously, the UBA continues to strengthen the rule of law, protect human rights, and improve legislation in wartime. Our tasks in this area are:

• Providing free legal assistance to citizens and businesses affected by the war (Hotline);
• Protecting the rights of military personnel and cooperating with the Ministry of Defence to ensure proper representation in military and war crimes cases;
• Developing legislative proposals through UBA committees.

Supporting lawyers affected by the war and advancing the legal profession remain priorities. Key components include:

• Supporting lawyers during the war with financial assistance, relocation help within Ukraine, and finding housing and work for those who left Ukraine;
• Integrating Ukrainian lawyers into the international legal community through cooperation with international legal associations and organisations;
• Creating educational and professional opportunities for lawyers, especially the younger generation (Students’ League, Forum of Young Lawyers).

One of the most successful UBA initiatives was the First Investment Forum – a platform for discussing prospective investment opportunities and addressing legal challenges in sectors crucial for Ukraine’s sustainable development. This outstanding event brought together key stakeholders (government officials, business leaders, legal professionals, and foreign investors) on a single platform to highlight significant legal aspects influencing business and investments in Ukraine. Please see the conclusions and recommendations of the Forum.