The mobilization of police officers is an important and controversial topic that causes mixed reactions in society. Why should law enforcement officers, who are called to maintain law and order on city streets, find themselves on the front lines of combat operations? How will this affect their professional duties and the safety of citizens?
Police officers are usually associated with the fight against crime, maintaining order and safety in society. However, in times of military conflicts, their role changes and becomes more complex. Instead of the usual patrols and investigations, they can be involved in front-line missions, where they have to face real combat actions. This adds new challenges and risks to their professional activities.
Many Ukrainians believe that there are not enough law enforcement officers at the front, because they are well physically trained, possess weapons and retire early – on average, from the age of 45. However, few people think about the consequences of such proposals. For example, about what will happen to the level of crime in the state if all law enforcement officers go to the front, as well as who will perform their other functions.
On May 18, 2024, the Law of Ukraine “On Amendments to Certain Legislative Acts of Ukraine Regarding Certain Issues of Military Service, Mobilization, and Military Registration” entered into force. The main provisions of this document foresee many changes, in particular for police officers. They have to switch from special to general military registration, but this does not mean their automatic mobilization. The law provides for the abolition of the right to deferment for National Police employees, but reservation has been introduced for law enforcement officers. The Cabinet of Ministers decided to reserve 90% of the personnel of the State Emergency Service and the National Police, while 10% of the policemen who are subject to mobilization can join the Lutyu brigade or the three additional combat brigades of the National Police of Ukraine.
By July 16, both current and former police officers had to update their information about themselves. They can be mobilized in the Armed Forces, just like civilians, but there are certain differences. Roman Istomin, a representative of the Poltava TCC and JV, commented on this issue:
“Employees of the National Police are a separate category of Ukrainians who perform the tasks assigned to them. Active policemen are not subject to mobilization – they have their functions in the rear, and consolidated police units constantly perform tasks on the front lines. However, all former police officers had to register for military service by July 16. After being released from law enforcement agencies, they, like everyone else, are subject to mobilization.
Police officers do not undergo military training while serving in law enforcement agencies. Therefore, they, like civilians, are sent to training centers. Shooting skills and conducting offensive or defensive actions are different concepts. And the knowledge of law enforcement officers is usually not enough, so training is provided.”
