Without lawyers or a notary: how the process of establishing nonprofit organizations is changing
21 April 21:48
The State Enterprise “Diya” announced the launch of a new service in the Diya app—automatic registration of civil society organizations (CSOs), according to "Komersant Ukrainian".
Now, you can create a CSO online without additional approvals and in about 30 minutes.
How the service works
The process is as simple as possible and consists of several steps:
- authorization via an electronic signature
- filling out an online form
- selecting the organization’s parameters
- signing the application
Key innovation:
- Automation — minimal involvement of officials
What has changed
Previously, establishing a public organization required:
- drafting a custom charter
- notary services
- in-person visits to registration authorities
Now:
- ready-made document templates are available
- no need for a notary
- fully digital process
Who is this for
The service allows you to create a non-profit organization in over 30 areas of activity, including:
- volunteering
- education
- human rights
These are key areas where civic engagement is particularly important during wartime.
Offline alternative
Despite digitalization, the service remains available through the Ministry of Justice of Ukraine and at regional centers
This is important for those who do not use digital services.
What does this mean
The launch of the service could have several effects:
- an increase in the number of civil society organizations
- lowering barriers to civic engagement
- a faster societal response to challenges
In effect, the government is making it easier to “enter” the third sector.
Potential risks
Along with the advantages, questions arise:
- Will the number of formal or “paper” NGOs increase?
- how the activities of new organizations will be monitored
- Are there enough templates for complex projects?
