Civil society organisations' and a charitable organisations' registration. The differences and restrictions.

1. Purpose of establishment:

• CSO: The purpose of the activity is determined by the charter. Areas of activity are unlimited if they do not contradict the law.
• CO: Activities are limited to specific areas defined by law, for example:
• Education, science.
• Healthcare.
• Culture, sports.
• Promoting the country's defence capability and mobilisation readiness, etc.

2. Restrictions:

• CSO: Registration is prohibited if the purpose or actions of the organisation are aimed at:
• Elimination of Ukraine's independence.
• Undermining the sovereignty or constitutional order.
• Propaganda of war and violence.
• Recognition of the legitimacy or denial of armed aggression against Ukraine.
• CO: Must operate exclusively for charitable purposes and cannot pursue commercial goals.

3. Profitability:

• CSO and CO: The purpose of establishment cannot be profit-making.

4. Number of founders:

• CSO: At least two founders.
• CO: Can be one founder or more.

5. Regulation of activities:

• CSO: The charter defines the areas of activity that can be changed at the discretion of the founders.
• CO: Limited exclusively to charitable activities.

Registration procedure

• CSO and COs are registered through state registration authorities or online through the public service portal.
• In both cases, it is necessary to submit a charter, an application for registration and other documents depending on the chosen form.

Additionally: It is important for both types of organisations to comply with the non-profitability requirements if they are to be included in the Register of Non-Profit Institutions and Organisations.