LEGAL ASPECTS OF PROTECTING BURIAL SITES AND HUMAN REMAINS: A CRIMINAL-LEGAL ANALYSIS IN UKRAINE
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.32782/2956-333X/2025-1-4Keywords:
desecration, burial sites, bodies of the deceased, criminal offense, unlawful appropriation, necrophilia, criminal liability, judicial practiceAbstract
The article provides a comprehensive criminal-legal analysis of the elements of the criminal offense stipulated in Article 297 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine, which concerns the desecration of burial sites, graves, bodies (remains, ashes) of the deceased, as well as the unlawful appropriation of items located in these places. Attention is given to the objective and subjective aspects of this offense, as well as an analysis of its qualified elements provided in parts two, three, and four of Article 297 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine. The term "desecration" and its criminallegal significance are examined, considering a wide range of actions that fall under this concept. It is established that criminal liability for desecration encompasses actions aimed at insulting the memory of the deceased, damaging burial sites, defiling the bodies of the deceased, or using their remains for unlawful purposes, including acts of necrophilia. The article reviews diverse judicial practices illustrating the specifics of identifying and qualifying such offenses. For example, cases of damage to grave structures, theft of items from burial sites for profit, and acts of dismemberment of bodies for ritualistic or other purposes are presented. Particular attention is paid to the issue of terminological ambiguity in criminal legislation, specifically the term "unlawful appropriation." The article analyzes modern scientific approaches to interpreting this concept, its etymology, and legal significance. It is emphasized that the term "appropriation" in the context of Article 297 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine has a specific meaning that differs from ordinary offenses against property, as it targets objects with symbolic and social significance. Furthermore, the importance of distinguishing acts of desecration from ordinary damage or destruction of property is highlighted. It is noted that actions qualified under Article 297 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine always have a demonstrative nature, aimed at insulting the religious, social, or moral-ethical values of society. The study reveals the psychological aspects of criminal behavior, particularly the motives and goals of offenders who commit desecration of graves and the bodies of the deceased. Specific proposals for improving current legislation are provided. In particular, it is proposed to clearly define the concepts of "desecration" and "appropriation of property located in burial sites," as well as to develop detailed recommendations for their qualification.
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