The Ukrainian Agricultural Council Calls for Support: A Lifeline for Farmers in Crisis
The Ukrainian Agricultural Council (UAC) is urgently appealing to lawmakers to rally behind a significant piece of legislation designed to provide support for agricultural businesses struggling due to the ongoing conflict in occupied areas. This proposed law, identified as draft bill 11180-1, focuses on modifying Ukraine’s Civil Code to adapt lending practices during war.
### Why This Legislation Matters
Imagine being a farmer, dedicated to nurturing your crops and sustaining your family, only to see your livelihood threatened by conflict. This legislative proposal aims to alleviate such hardships by temporarily suspending loan repayments and collections for farmers located in occupied regions. By doing so, it particularly supports those who have bravely relocated to areas under Ukrainian control, allowing them to focus on rebuilding their lives and businesses without the immediate weight of financial distress.
#### Key Features of the Proposed Legislation
The draft bill includes several essential provisions that could transform the agricultural landscape:
— **Asset Protection**: Banks will be prohibited from seizing assets of businesses located in active combat zones or areas occupied by foreign forces since the start of the conflict.
— **Guarantor Safeguards**: Individuals acting as guarantors for loans will be protected from having their assets confiscated, ensuring they are not unfairly penalized for supporting local businesses.
These measures are critical, aligning civil and consumer lending laws, which will empower businesses in previously occupied areas to restart their operations and fulfill their financial obligations.
### Real-World Impact: A Farmer’s Tale
Let’s consider the story of Oleksandr, a farmer from Eastern Ukraine. When conflict erupted, he was forced to leave his farm behind. Upon relocating to a safer region, the stress of unpaid loans loomed over him, threatening his ability to start anew. Under this proposed legislation, Oleksandr and countless farmers like him would see a pause in their loan obligations, giving them much-needed breathing room as they work towards recovery.
#### Why Urgency is Key
The UAC stresses that time is of the essence. The agricultural sector is critical not only for Ukraine’s economy but also for food security. According to recent statistics, agriculture contributes about 10% of Ukraine’s GDP, making it a vital pillar of the nation’s economy. If the current challenges are not addressed promptly, the long-term effects could devastate rural communities and threaten national food supplies.
### Call to Action: Supporting Our Farmers
In an era where every action counts, legislative support for farmers is imperative. By backing this bill, lawmakers can actively participate in safeguarding the livelihoods of countless individuals who have dedicated their lives to nurturing the land.
For those interested in supporting this cause:
— **Stay informed**: Follow updates from the UAC and other agricultural organizations.
— **Advocate**: Contact your local representatives to emphasize the importance of this legislation.
— **Support local farmers**: Consider buying locally produced goods to help bolster their recovery.
In conclusion, the UAC’s push for this wartime lending legislation is not simply a bureaucratic measure; it’s a vital lifeline for farmers grappling with the repercussions of conflict. By championing this cause, we can foster resilience in the agricultural sector and help communities thrive, even in the face of adversity. Every one of us can play a role—let’s stand together and support our farmers today!
