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Lidiia turned to Right to Protection for help after her passport expired

May 4, 2026

The woman had obtained her passport whilst still living in Makiivka, in Donetska oblast. However, due to the occupation and difficult circumstances, she was unable to have her photograph inserted into her passport in time after reaching the required age.

It might seem like a mere formality. However, without a photograph affixed to it, a passport becomes invalid. This means that a person is left without a document proving their identity. Without it, it is impossible to deal with government bodies, apply for other documents, or access essential services.

After moving to Kharkiv, Lidiia contacted the State Migration Service office to sort out the matter. However, to replace her passport, she needed to gather a large number of documents, which was practically impossible for her to do on her own.

The Fund’s lawyers then became involved in the case and:

• helped the woman to compile a full set of documents and prepare to submit her application;
• accompanied her to the local branch of the State Migration Service.

In the end, Lidiia received a new passport — an ID card. Now she once again has the opportunity to:

• receive medical care;
• find official employment;
• benefit from social security provisions.

This project was funded with UK aid from the UK Government within the National PULSE Consortium, coordinated by Right to Protection. UK Government support to this project in Ukraine is provided through the SHARP element of its Humanitarian Assistance, Recovery and Protection Programme.