Employment of IDPs: new rules for getting a job

Ukrainians forced to leave their homes due to the war received unpleasant news regarding employment conditions. The Department of Inspection Activities of the Zhytomyr region reported that internally displaced persons (IDPs) no longer enjoy legislative protection from a probationary period when signing an employment contract.

Previously, in peacetime, the legislation prohibited the establishment of a probationary period for specific categories of citizens: young professionals, teenagers, military veterans, and displaced persons. This protection was essential for those who hoped for a new beginning. However, the situation changed with the outbreak of the military conflict.

According to the new Law of Ukraine “On the Organization of Labor Relations under Martial Law”, employers have the right to appoint a probationary period for all employees, including those previously protected categories.

This means that when employed, IDPs may be required to complete a probationary period, which can last several months. If the results do not satisfy the employer, the job may be lost.

During peacetime, the maximum probationary period was limited to three months or six months, depending on the agreement with the trade union. After amendments to the legislation, these restrictions became less strict. The rights of employees are significantly narrowed, and anyone looking for work in wartime should take this into account.

Therefore, all internally displaced persons planning to find employment are advised to carefully study the employment contract terms and not be afraid to ask questions about the probationary period to avoid unforeseen difficulties.