You must submit your complaint in writing.
Form
You do not need to fill in a specific form. A model application form is available on the Ombudsman’s website to help you better structure your application.
Download model application.
Language
The working language of the Ombudsman is Ukrainian. This means that your application should be in Ukrainian. The official reply you will receive will be in Ukrainian.
Content
In your application you need to explain clearly:
- what has happened
- when it happened
- which state institutions or officials were involved
- to which institutions or officials you complained about this situation and what their responses were
- the application needs to contain your name, signature, date and return address
Your application does not need to be in legally correct language or refer to any specific legal provisions, but it has to be clear and understandable. Try to write only about the facts and issues relating to the violation about which you are complaining. To help the Ombudsman better understand what has happened, try to keep the text simple, focused and avoid emotional or derogatory language.
Documents
If you can, please add all the documents (especially complaints you have made and the responses to them) that are related to the situation you are complaining about to your application.
Time limits
Appeals are submitted to the Commissioner in writing within a year after the discovery of a violation of the rights and freedoms of a person. In the presence of exceptional circumstances, this period may be extended by the Commissioner, but not more than for two years.
Address
Applications must be sent to the following address:
The Secretariat of the Ombudsman
21/8, Instytutska str., Kyiv, 01008
You can also apply to regional offices. You can find out the exact address by calling the hotline 0-800-501-720.
Legal aid
In Ukraine you are not entitled to free legal aid when applying to the Ombudsman. If you are not sure if your human rights have been violated and whether the Ombudsman can investigate your case, you can email (hotline@ombudsman.gov.ua) or call (0-800-501-720 ) the Ombudsman’s office before you make an application. If you need further legal aid to prepare your application, you will have to hire a lawyer yourself. Having a lawyer is not compulsory when applying to the Ombudsman.