Ukrainian Government Submits Labor Code Draft Again

The Cabinet of Ministers has re-registered a draft of the new Labor Code of Ukraine in the Verkhovna Rada, which will replace the outdated norms of 1971 and align labor legislation with EU standards. The new code updates the existing Labor Code of 1971, introducing modern rules for workers and businesses that meet the needs of the Ukrainian economy. The code simplifies personnel processes, expands opportunities for flexible forms of employment, and makes the rules clearer for businesses and workers. The draft introduces a European approach to regulating labor relations and implements more than 30 EU directives in the field of labor and social policy. Key changes include the digitalization of labor relations, modern types of employment contracts, modernization of the labor inspection system, new approaches to minimum wage, clear rules on non-discrimination, and an increase in the minimum duration of annual paid leave. The draft was previously submitted to the Rada in January 2026 but was withdrawn due to changes in the government composition. It has now been revised in accordance with the recommendations of the International Labour Organization.