The Central Election Commission has decided to restore the operation of the automated information and communication system “State Voter Register” concerning interaction with voters. This decision is the result of multi-level efforts by the commission aimed at enhancing cybersecurity, protecting personal data, and ensuring the stability of electronic systems under the challenging conditions of martial law.
This is reported by Kyiv24
Strengthening Protection and Returning to Full Operation
Following the onset of Russia’s full-scale aggression and the introduction of martial law in Ukraine on February 24, 2022, the CEC temporarily suspended the functioning of the voter register and its support by the relevant authorities. Throughout 2022–2025, the commission implemented new technological and organizational measures to restore the full operation of the register and ensure the protection of its database.
“The restoration of the full functionality of the State Voter Register services is the result of systematic and diligent work by the commission, which was carried out in several stages, aimed at enhancing cybersecurity and protecting personal data, as well as ensuring the stability of the commission’s electronic systems under martial law. The CEC is working to maximize the protection of voter data while ensuring the transparency and accessibility of public information resources,” said CEC Deputy Chair Serhiy Dubovyk, commenting on this decision.
Discussion on Elections During Martial Law
The issue of conducting elections under martial law remains relevant. The Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada, Ruslan Stefanchuk, announced that the law on elections during martial law will be applied on a one-time basis. A working group has been established to prepare the corresponding draft law, led by the First Deputy Chairman of Parliament Oleksandr Korniienko, which will include representatives from all factions, civil society, and the CEC.
In December, U.S. President Donald Trump stated in an interview with Politico that presidential elections in Ukraine must be held, emphasizing that the country’s authorities are allegedly using the war to postpone them. In response, President Volodymyr Zelensky highlighted his readiness for elections and called on the U.S. to help ensure their security.
Subsequently, Zelensky reported on consultations with representatives of the Verkhovna Rada regarding the possibility of organizing elections during martial law. Meanwhile, the Russian Federation and its leader are promoting false claims about the alleged illegitimacy of the Ukrainian government due to the absence of elections in 2024, as well as spreading false information about the appointment of officials by the president.
At a press conference in Moscow on December 19, Russian President Vladimir Putin stated that Russia is “ready to consider” security guarantees during possible elections in Ukraine, specifically promising to refrain from strikes on Ukrainian territory on election day. However, Putin noted that Russia has no intention of ceasing fire for the elections, recalling its own experience of organizing elections during hostilities.
It is worth adding that according to current legislation, conducting elections in Ukraine is prohibited during the period of martial law.