Ukrainian schoolchildren will be able to skip classes: who will fall under this rule

In Ukrainian educational institutions of state or municipal form, Christian ethics lessons are held only with the consent of the parents. In case of parental refusal, the child may not attend these classes. This was reported by the educational ombudsman Nadiya Leschyk in an interview with “UP. Life”.

She emphasized that Ukraine functions as a secular state, therefore religious issues should not interfere with the educational process. “In state and municipal educational institutions, lessons or courses on religious ethics can be held only with the permission of the parents,” Leschyk noted.

The ombudsman also added that if the parents refuse to give consent, the educational institution is obliged to provide the opportunity for children not to attend these classes. It is important that the school maintains an open dialogue with families and adheres to current legislation.

In addition, Leschyk noted that her office regularly receives applications related to holding Christian ethics lessons or religious events in schools. Some parents are asking to protect their children from being forced to adopt religious beliefs.

One such case involved a family whose children had been absent from school for a long time. The situation led to lengthy legal proceedings regarding the possible deprivation of parental rights, but by the time the case reached court, the family had disappeared. Leszczyk noted that it is highly likely that the children are still not receiving an education. Unfortunately, such cases are not isolated.