# Verkhovna Rada
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Who / What
The **Verkhovna Rada** is the unicameral legislature of Ukraine, serving as its supreme legislative body. It consists of 450 deputies who convene to pass laws, approve budgets, and oversee government activities.
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Background & History
Established in 1996 following Ukraine’s independence from the Soviet Union, the Verkhovna Rada evolved from a Soviet-era parliament into a modern democratic institution. Its founding marked a shift toward decentralized governance, with elections held every five years to elect deputies. Key milestones include adopting the Ukrainian Constitution (1996), ratifying treaties like the Euro-Atlantic Integration Agreements, and responding to crises such as the Orange Revolution (2004) and Russian annexation of Crimea (2014).
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Why Notable
The Verkhovna Rada plays a pivotal role in shaping Ukraine’s political, economic, and national security policies. It is responsible for drafting laws, approving foreign policy decisions, and holding executive branch officials accountable. Its influence extends to international relations, including membership in the Council of Europe and NATO’s Partnership for Peace program.
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In the News
As Ukraine faces ongoing conflict with Russia since 2014, the Verkhovna Rada has been central to military support efforts, passing critical legislation like the **Law on Special Military Operations** (2022) and approving sanctions against Russian entities. Recent developments include debates over energy independence, reforming the judiciary, and addressing refugee crises from war zones.
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Key Facts
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