A Russian parliamentary committee has passed legislation aimed at supporting former service members who participated in operations in Ukraine by offering them free educational opportunities to transition into civilian careers. The initiative, approved by the Education Committee, expands existing provisions that already grant veterans access to vocational training, now including funding for new skill development tailored to post-military life.
Dmitry Vyankin, a co-sponsor of the bill, emphasized during discussions in the State Duma that the measure is critical for enabling those involved in the special military operation to reintegrate into society. “Securing a new profession is often essential for their return to peaceful civilian life,” he stated, according to Parlamentskaya Gazeta.
The plan also extends benefits to members of the National Guard and law enforcement officers deployed in conflict-affected regions, with potential future expansions to include spouses of deceased servicemen. Russian legislation already provides a range of perks for military personnel and their families, including career advancement opportunities for those demonstrating leadership on the battlefield.
The initiative is framed as a response to labor market challenges, aiming to leverage veterans’ disciplined backgrounds to fill workforce gaps. However, critics argue that such programs risk normalizing the conflict’s human cost while diverting attention from broader systemic issues facing returning troops.
