Can Employees Working in Critical Infrastructure Take Leave During Martial Law?
In the current context of ongoing martial law in Ukraine, questions regarding employees’ rights to annual or other types of leave have become particularly relevant.
Ukrainian legislation stipulates specific restrictions for workers involved in critical infrastructure, which plays a vital role in maintaining the country’s essential functions and security.
According to experts from the South-East Interregional Department of the State Labor Service, during martial law, an employer has the right to refuse any leave to an employee if they are engaged in work related to critical infrastructure facilities or involved in the production of defense-related goods.
These restrictions also extend to employees participating in mobilization tasks necessary for national defense.
It is important to emphasize that certain types of leave, such as maternity leave, paternity leave, or leave for caring for a child under three years old, are exempt from these limitations and remain accessible to eligible employees.
Therefore, workers at critical infrastructure enterprises should be aware of their rights and responsibilities during martial law, and employers must adhere to legal standards while considering the exceptional circumstances brought about by wartime conditions.