The Role of Complaints Handling Procedures in the Redress of Administrative Grievances in Ukraine: An Analysis of Law Reform

This contribution considers the approach of administrative law in Ukraine to the redress of administrative grievances. It outlines the position in Ukrainian law prior to the coming into force of the Law on Administrative Procedure (LAP) and then considers the position once that piece of legislation comes into force. The analysis identified numerous deficiencies in Ukrainian law that are addressed by the adoption of the LAP once it is in force, both in relation to the procedure for making administrative complaints and for the remedies and redress that can be offered. Specific focus is placed on the ability of public authorities to pay compensation where damage has been caused by unlawful acts. The piece identifies many significant improvements that are brought about by the LAP, but also identifies a number of areas where further reform is needed, as there are gaps that remain in the current legal structures.