The Ministry of Defense approved the Procedure for the organization of reintegration measures for defensemen of Ukraine released from captivity
The Ministry of Defense of Ukraine has approved the procedure for organizing reintegration activities with defensemen of Ukraine released from captivity in the department’s system, which determines the mechanism of comprehensive rehabilitation of servicemen after returning from captivity.
The purpose of the measures is the full post-isolation recovery of the discharged serviceman — his physical and mental health, optimal working capacity and social activity as a prerequisite for returning to duty.
The main tasks of reintegration include restoring the functions of body organs and systems, restoring cognitive, regulatory and communicative mental functions, prevention and treatment of mental and behavioral disorders, restoring contacts with the social environment and family members, as well as recording important information about the circumstances of being in captivity.
The procedure provides for three stages of implementation of the reintegration program. The preparatory stage begins with informing about the future release and includes the identification of reintegration centers and the formation of teams of debriefers, psychologists and social work specialists.
The main stage consists of two phases: the first covers the meeting of the released at the exchange point, initial medical examination and transportation to the reintegration centers; the second involves a comprehensive medical examination, recording of signs of torture, debriefings, psychological support, social support and restoration of documents. The additional stage is intended for those military personnel who need long-term rehabilitation treatment in specialized health care facilities.
The document guarantees released persons the right to respect for dignity, confidentiality of procedures, voluntary participation in casual activities and protection from re-traumatization. Completion of reintegration measures is mandatory for all military personnel and is carried out in centers designated by the Ministry of Defense and, if necessary, in health care facilities.
A specially formed reintegration team headed by a manager and including debriefers, military psychologists and social work specialists is responsible for the organization and conduct of responsible events; all team members undergo special training on reintegration and post-isolation support.
After completing the main activities and returning to the military unit, post-isolation support is provided for the next 12 months. The procedure was developed by the Department of Psychological Support in accordance with the requirements of the Law of Ukraine “ On Amendments to Certain Laws of Ukraine Regarding Ensuring the Rights of Servicemen and Policemen to Social Protection” and the Law of Ukraine “On the mental health care system in Ukraine”.
