Ukraine’s Parliament Faces Major Overhaul: A Third Could Be Cut

Ukraine’s Parliament Faces Major Overhaul as Speaker Proposes Significant Downsizing

Ukraine’s parliament, the Verkhovna Rada, could shrink by nearly a third under sweeping reforms proposed by Speaker Ruslan Stefanchuk. The plan, revealed this week, aims to streamline legislative processes amid the country’s ongoing war with Russia and economic challenges. Critics question whether reducing lawmakers will improve governance, while supporters argue it will cut costs and boost efficiency.

Rationale Behind the Proposed Parliamentary Reforms

The proposal to reduce Ukraine’s 450-member parliament to approximately 300 lawmakers comes as the country faces unprecedented pressures. Stefanchuk emphasized the need for a “leaner, more effective legislature” during wartime, citing bloated bureaucracy and slow decision-making. Ukraine currently has one of the largest parliaments in Europe relative to its population.

“A smaller parliament means faster debates, fewer procedural delays, and more decisive action,” said political analyst Oksana Zabolotna of the Kyiv Institute for Public Policy. “But the risk is losing regional representation and expertise.”

Key arguments for downsizing include:

• Cost savings: Parliamentary operations cost taxpayers over $120 million annually.
• Efficiency: Current sessions often stall due to factional disputes and absenteeism.
• Public trust: Only 23% of Ukrainians approve of parliament’s performance, per a 2023 Razumkov Centre poll.

Challenges and Opposition to the Plan

Opponents argue that abrupt downsizing could weaken legislative oversight. Former Deputy Speaker Iryna Gerashchenko warned, “Cutting seats without electoral reform may centralize power in fewer hands, undermining democracy.” Smaller parties fear exclusion, while some regions worry about losing representation.

Constitutional hurdles also loom. Amending Ukraine’s constitution requires a two-thirds majority—a high bar for Stefanchuk’s ruling Servant of the People party, which holds 240 seats. “This isn’t just about numbers; it’s about rebalancing political influence,” said legal scholar Mykhailo Minakov.

Historical Context and Global Comparisons

Ukraine’s parliament has undergone multiple reforms since independence in 1991, but its size remained constant. By comparison:

• Germany’s Bundestag has 736 members for 83 million people.
• Poland’s Sejm has 460 members for 38 million.
• Ukraine’s current ratio: 1 lawmaker per 100,000 citizens.

Countries like New Zealand and Sweden reduced their legislatures successfully, but experts caution that context matters. “Ukraine’s wartime footing adds complexity,” noted Zabolotna.

Next Steps and Implications for Ukrainian Democracy

The proposal will face committee reviews and public debate before any vote. If approved, changes could take effect by the next election, slated for 2025. President Zelensky has yet to comment, but his administration previously backed anti-corruption reforms.

Potential outcomes include:

• Streamlined lawmaking: Faster responses to crises like military funding or EU accession demands.
• Political realignments: Parties may merge to secure fewer seats.
• Public reaction: Protests or support depending on perceived fairness.

As Ukraine balances war and reform, this overhaul could redefine its governance. For now, all eyes are on the Rada’s next move. Follow our ongoing coverage for updates on Ukraine’s political restructuring.

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