The Ministry of Defence is stepping up vetting of candidates for key posts

This was announced by the Ukrainian Ministry of Defence.

The Ministry of Defence is tightening up the vetting process for candidates before appointing them to key posts.

This concerns positions where an individual’s decisions may affect security, resource management, personnel policy or the reputation of the defence department.

The Ministry of Defence explains that the aim of such vetting is to prevent people posing corruption, reputational or security risks from being appointed to sensitive posts.

What will be checked

Before appointing a candidate, their biography, professional experience, education, training and competencies will be analysed.

They will also examine performance appraisals, references, disciplinary records, reputation and potential security risks.

Information regarding potential corruption or corruption-related offences will be checked separately.

The vetting may also cover declarations, the accuracy of the data submitted, the consistency of assets with lawful income, and any false information or documents.

If necessary, candidates may be referred for a psychophysiological examination using a polygraph.

When will the checks take place

Checks will be carried out prior to appointment to the post.

At the same time, the Ministry of Defence notes that a candidate or an already appointed employee may be vetted after appointment – if new facts or risks emerge.

Periodic monitoring of already appointed employees is also envisaged.

Who will be responsible for the checks

Several departments of the Ministry of Defence will be involved in the checks.

The Personnel Department will assess the candidate’s professional suitability.

The Anti-Corruption Unit will check for potential corruption risks.

Internal security units will analyse behavioural, biographical and professional risks.

Strategic communications units will assess reputational risks in the information space.

Coordination of the vetting process is the responsibility of the internal security unit.

What does the outcome of the check mean?

The Ministry of Defence clarifies that the results of the check do not automatically constitute grounds for appointment or refusal of appointment.

They are for information and guidance purposes only.

The final personnel decision will be made by the authorised manager.

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