Ministry for Communities and Territories Development: Government supports draft law to align Ukrainian railways with EU standards

The Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine has endorsed a draft law developed by the Ministry for Communities and Territories Development titled “On the Safety and Interoperability of Ukraine’s Railway Transport”.

The document is designed to adapt Ukraine’s railways to the legislation and standards of the European Union. Its aim is to enhance traffic safety, ensure technical compatibility with the European system, and integrate Ukrainian railway transport into a unified European space.

The draft law provides for:

• Establishing a modern safety management system for railway transport in line with EU requirements;
• Introducing risk assessments and unified technical regulation rules;
• A new system for maintaining rolling stock and accountability for its condition;
• European standards for admitting locomotive drivers to work, as well as training and upskilling;
• Technical and operational interoperability of railway infrastructure with EU countries.

“This law is a significant step in the European integration of railways. We are transitioning from national standards to unified European rules, opening the way for Ukraine to create a common railway transport market, improve traffic safety, and build trust with international partners,” emphasised Deputy Prime Minister for Restoration and Minister for Communities and Territories Development Oleksii Kuleba.

Adoption of the draft law is part of fulfilling Ukraine’s obligations under the EU Association Agreement and indicators of the Ukraine Facility initiative, paving the way for multibillion funding from the EU and the World Bank.

The Directorates-General DG MOVE and DG NEAR have confirmed that the document complies with European requirements in safety, technical compatibility, and licensing of railway undertakings. Together with subsequent by-laws, it will enable full implementation of all EU legislative acts in these areas.

Following Government approval, the draft law will be submitted to the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine for consideration. Its provisions are expected to enter into force three years after publication – this transitional period is necessary for the sector to adapt to the new standards.