PROBLEMATIC ASPECTS OF IMPROVING REGULATIONS ON THE USE OF SYMBOLS AND DISTINCTIVE SIGNS IN THE PROSECUTOR’S OFFICE OF UKRAINE

Abstract

The article is dedicated to the analysis of bills registered in the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine concerning the refinement of norms for using symbols and distinctive signs within the prosecutorial bodies. The study evaluates the feasibility and necessity of enhancing legal standards related to the use of such symbols, official uniforms, and distinctive badges in prosecutorial institutions and proposes an individual perspective on these mechanisms. An in-depth analysis has been undertaken on alternative bills registered in the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine addressing specific aspects of prosecutorial reform. In the context of the study’s focus, some provisions of the draft Law on Amendments to the Law of Ukraine “On the Prosecution” regarding the improvement of norms for using symbols and distinctive signs in the prosecutorial bodies have been dissected. The proposed amendments to the Law of Ukraine “On the Prosecution” are: a) to legally stipulate the use of symbols and distinctive signs in prosecutorial bodies and also to define the mandatory cases when prosecutors should wear their official uniforms (amendments to Article 85-1 of the Law of Ukraine “On the Prosecution”); b) to enact that the provisions on the official clothing for prosecutorial staff come into effect from January 1, 2024. Reflections and observations have been shared concerning the need for legislative regulation of the use of symbols and distinctive signs in prosecutorial bodies and about establishing, on a legislative level, the mandatory cases when prosecutors should wear official attire. After a systematic analysis of the proposed changes and the current legislation of Ukraine, considering modern statelegal realities, it’s highlighted that the introduction of official attire in prosecutorial bodies should be approached with social consideration, scientifically justified, and financially calculated. Emphasis is placed on the notion that, based on the current national legislation and the actual situation, it’s unclear whether the proposed changes can systematically address the issue of enhancing the professional level of prosecutors or serve as an additional motivator in their activities.