Published on: 2026-08-26
Source: United Nations – United Nations –
An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
August 25, 2026 Peace and Security
Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, which began more than four years ago, has led not only to the deaths of thousands, massive destruction, mass displacement of the population, and enormous economic damage—it has also changed the situation in the area of crime and corruption.
Changes in the crime situation
According to the government, in 2024, compared to the pre-war level, the number of automatic weapons seizures increased more than 15 times, and grenades more than seven times.
Cybercrime has sharply increased: from 2022 to 2023, the number of fraud cases tripled. At the same time, according to a recent report from the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), the drug market has undergone fundamental changes: domestic production and illegal trafficking of synthetic drugs have grown significantly.
Ukrainians are concerned about corruption
A nationwide survey showed that corruption remains one of the main problems causing concern among Ukrainians: more than 91 percent of the population consider it to be widespread.
Meanwhile, Ukraine’s state institutions are under severe strain: according to the government, more than 137 courts are non-operational, and 44 out of 86 penitentiary facilities are seriously damaged, affecting nearly 35,000 inmates.
Government institutions are adapting
Despite this pressure, national institutions remain resilient and continue to adapt, taking measures to strengthen investigations, criminal prosecution, and crime prevention, including with the ongoing support of the UNDP.
Visit of the UNDP Head
© UNDP UN
UNDP Executive Director Monica Juma visited Ukraine as a representative of the UN Secretary-General on the occasion of the 35th anniversary of Ukraine’s restoration of independence and National Flag Day. Her visit reaffirmed UNDP’s support for Ukrainian institutions engaged in combating corruption, ensuring justice, and law enforcement.
The Executive Director met with the Deputy Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine, Ihor Zhovkva. The parties discussed the UNDP country programme, reviewed progress in existing areas of cooperation, and identified priorities for further deepening the partnership between UNDP and Ukraine.
Monica Juma also met with Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiga as part of official events, and later held talks with Deputy Foreign Minister Maryana Betsa. The parties discussed expanding cooperation and opportunities to more closely align UNDP support with Ukraine’s priorities and needs.
Combating illegal arms trafficking, cybercrime, and human trafficking
The Executive Director visited the Kyiv-Pasazhyrskyi railway station, where she met with the Chairman of the Board of JSC “Ukrainian Railways” Oleksandr Peretsky and delivered equipment, including x-ray catalogs developed by the UNDP for detecting firearms, their components, and ammunition in hand luggage, as well as ten desktop computers.
This assistance is part of a broader partnership with Ukrainian Railways. Since 2022, three railway stations have been equipped with technologies that enable the detection and prevention of illegal firearms trafficking.
Monica Juma also discussed with Ukrainian officials the UNODC’s comprehensive measures in response to the rapidly changing situation in organized crime – including support for developing Ukraine’s new Strategy to combat organized crime.
Border Protection
Special attention was given to expanding cooperation in border management. UNDP-supported port control units in Kyiv, Lviv, and Odesa today operate as joint groups that bring together representatives of customs, border service, security service, and police. This allows for joint risk assessment and coordination of measures to counter illegal trafficking.
Further cooperation
The Executive Director confirmed the UNODC’s readiness to continue strengthening Ukraine’s capabilities to counter cybercrime, including by continuing technical support for CyberHub – the country’s first specialized training center for combating cybercrime.
Monica Juma also emphasized UNDP’s support for efforts to combat human trafficking and conflict-related sexual violence. Since 2022, the Office has trained over 700 specialists in victim identification, crime investigation, and holding perpetrators accountable.
This support is accompanied by a noticeable increase in response measures from Ukraine. In 2025, law enforcement authorities registered 162 cases of human trafficking – 47 percent more than in 2024. Forty-six indictments were submitted to courts – 64.3 percent more than the previous year.
Penitentiary system of Ukraine
© UN OCHA
In the Kyiv detention center – one of the oldest and largest institutions of its kind in Ukraine – the Executive Director familiarized herself with the results of UNDP support on the ground. In particular, the recently renovated kitchen now provides meals daily to more than 2,400 detainees, and the new library contributes to education and rehabilitation. During the visit, the institution was also provided with equipment for the kitchen and library, as well as computer technology.
The broader support of the UNPF by the United Nations for the penitentiary system of Ukraine includes the development of the country’s first Roadmap for rehabilitation and reintegration in penitentiary institutions, as well as assistance to eight institutions to ensure continuous operation under the emergency conditions of wartime.
At a meeting with Minister of Justice Denis Maslov, the Executive Director discussed further support for the penitentiary system. The parties emphasized the importance of ensuring humane detention conditions based on respect for human rights.
Strengthening the fight against corruption
To strengthen cooperation in the fight against corruption – one of the most pressing issues in the field of public administration in Ukraine – the Executive Director met with the head of the National Agency on Corruption Prevention, Viktor Pavlushchik, the director of the National Anti-Corruption Bureau, Semen Kryvonos, and other officials.
The UNODC has provided national anti-corruption institutions with a range of practical tools, including a Model Code of Conduct and specialized training on tracking illicit assets. The Office also supports Ukraine in conducting a self-assessment as part of the second cycle review of the implementation of the UN Convention against Corruption.
In addition, a new platform has been created that brings together ministries, state-owned companies, and civil society to increase transparency in public procurement. More than 200 young Ukrainians have participated in anti-corruption initiatives, including Anti-Corruption Quest and StreetLaw Fest.
Please note; This information is raw content received directly from the information source. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.