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How can servicemembers receive quality treatment and rehabilitation if the process of accessing them can take months? How realistic is it to appeal the decisions of specialized commissions? How can one secure timely payments after injury and obtain benefits? Why do these and other processes, which should be mere formalities, turn into an exhausting marathon of paperwork and certificates, where servicemen and women as well as veterans have to defend their dignity and fight for what is guaranteed by law?

Together with representatives of civic initiatives that provide legal support to defenders, we will discuss the bureaucratic barriers faced by Ukrainian servicemembers and veterans at various levels. We will also talk about the changes needed to make state mechanisms work for people, not against them, and reflect on how to foster respect in society for those returning from war and help protect their rights.

The discussion offers a Ukrainian context to the issue raised in the documentary film A Land of Paper (dir. Marion Boé). The film is available for viewing on docuspace.org until September 11.