Position of the NGO “ARCA” Regarding the Situation Around NABU and SAPO

Although our organization does not specialize in anti-corruption work, we cannot remain silent. Silence is consent.

Some believe that Roma organizations should refrain from commenting on socio-political issues. But we, as representatives of the Roma community, are an integral part of Ukrainian society. Our people serve on the front lines, volunteer, and support civilians — we have the right to speak out and participate in public dialogue.

The Roma community believes in Ukraine’s European future. But laws and events that undermine the principles of justice, transparency, and human rights only move us further away from that future.

Our organization, alongside many others, works every day to bring Ukraine closer to becoming a full part of the European community — democratic, open, and equal for all.

We are deeply troubled by the situation currently unfolding in the country — it threatens societal cohesion. And it is unity that should now be our collective priority. We urge all parties not to provoke division and tension, which could lead to long-lasting consequences.

Yes, the public has questions for NABU and SAPO — but there are also questions for government bodies at all levels. Still, Ukrainians are an extraordinarily wise people. We understand that in the midst of a full-scale war, this is not the time for internal clashes. Many issues are being consciously postponed until the post-war period.

We urge the authorities not to open “Pandora’s box” — not to unleash all the long-standing painful issues that have accumulated in society. We cannot predict how our European partners will react, but we know for certain: such crises give additional arguments to Russian propaganda, which seeks to sow doubt in the international community about our internal stability.

At the same time, we acknowledge that healthy competition between institutions can be beneficial. Criticism of NABU and SAPO for a lack of results is part of a broader public demand. But to be fair, similar concerns are raised about other law enforcement bodies as well. This points to a much deeper problem that requires a systemic approach.

In light of this, we call on Members of Parliament, the government, and responsible institutions to:

• repeal or suspend the law that has caused public outcry;

• declare a moratorium on similar legislative initiatives, at least until the end of the war;

• or find a compromise solution that preserves unity without undermining public trust in state institutions or damaging Ukraine’s international reputation.