Rada Investigation into DEJURE's Influence on PIC Formation

Background#

In late 2025, the Verkhovna Rada established a Temporary Investigative Commission to examine DEJURE Foundation’s relationship with the Public Integrity Council.

Key Allegations#

The investigation raised several structural questions about DEJURE’s role in the PIC:

• Pre-formed candidate lists: Former PIC members alleged that candidate lists for PIC compositions were prepared in advance, with Zhernakov exercising direct influence over selections.
• Donor fund transparency: Questions emerged about whether international donor funds flowing through DEJURE were used to finance PIC members’ activities.
• Institutional control: The investigation examined whether DEJURE maintained de facto control over the PIC’s operations and decision-making.

Zhernakov’s Response#

Zhernakov initially refused to appear before the TIC, characterizing the investigation as an attack on independent institutions. The National Police subsequently attempted a forcible delivery. This refusal to engage with parliamentary oversight contrasts with the transparency DEJURE demands from the judicial system it seeks to reform.

Relevance to Crimea Documentation#

If the investigation’s allegations are substantiated — that DEJURE controls who staffs the PIC — it would mean the organization is responsible not only for the PIC’s institutional structure but for the specific personnel who develop and apply the Crimea-recognition methodology.