Rada proposes to introduce fines for sexism

The Verkhovna Rada proposes to define the concept of "sexism" and set administrative fines in case of its manifestations.

Thus, document №4598 suggests introducing the definition of "sexism" and amending some legislation to prohibit sexism in society.

The law draft defines "sexism" as "any action, gesture, visual expression, spoken or written word, practice or behavior, based on the idea that a person or group of people is worse because of their gender, and manifesting itself in in the public or private spheres, on or off the Internet and aimed at (or causing): violation of one's own dignity or the rights of a person or group of people; sexual, psychological harm or suffering of a person or group of persons; creating a threatening, hostile, degrading or offensive environment; impeding the independence or full enjoyment of human rights by a person or group of persons; supporting and reinforcing gender stereotypes."

Sexism and sex discrimination are prohibited. Meanwhile, the following aren't considered sexism and discrimination on the grounds of sex:

• special protection for women during pregnancy, childbirth, and breastfeeding;
• compulsory military service for men provided by law;
• the difference in retirement age for women and men provided by law;
• special labor protection requirements for women and men related to protecting their reproductive health;
• positive actions.

It's proposed to determine that a person who believes to be discriminated against on the grounds of sex or has been sexually harassed or has suffered from gender-based violence, has the right to file a complaint with the state authorities, the Autonomous Republic of Crimea authorities, local governments and their officials, the National Police, the Verkhovna Rada Commissioner for Human Rights and/or the court in the manner prescribed by law.

If domestic methods are exhausted or if using such methods is unduly delayed, a notification may be sent to the UN Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women.

Law draft №4599 proposes to establish liability for acts of sexism, in particular, to expand Article 173-2 of the Code of Administrative Offenses to this concept.

Offenses under this article are punishable by a fine of ten to twenty non-taxable minimum incomes (170-340 UAH) or community service for thirty to forty hours or administrative arrest for up to seven days.

The same acts committed repeatedly entail the imposition of a fine of twenty to forty non-taxable minimums (UAH 340-680) or community service for forty to sixty hours, or administrative arrest for a period of up to fifteen days.