The article examines the administrative and legal status of the State Border Guard Service of Ukraine (SBGSU) as a specific entity of public administration in the field of national security and state border protection. It is determined that the legal status of the SBGSU represents a complex category combining the features of a military formation and a law enforcement agency of special purpose. The study analyzes the regulatory and legal framework governing the Service’s activities, including the provisions of the Constitution of Ukraine, the Laws of Ukraine «On the State Border Guard Service of Ukraine», «On the State Border of Ukraine», «On National Security of Ukraine», and subordinate acts of the President of Ukraine and the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine. Particular emphasis is placed on Ukraine’s international legal obligations, especially in the context of implementing the Association Agreement with the European Union and harmonizing national legislation with European border management standards. It is established that the activities of the SBGSU are based on the principles of legality, respect for human rights, political neutrality, transparency, cooperation with other state authorities, and openness to democratic civilian oversight. The article reveals the main features of service within the SBGSU and the system of social guarantees. Special attention is paid to the issues of social and legal protection of servicemen and their family members, particularly in cases of death or injury incurred in the line of duty. The necessity of improving the administrative and legal foundations of the SBGSU’s functioning is substantiated, including the development of a unified Law on Public Service in the Security Sector, modernization of social protection mechanisms, and enhancement of medical support for servicemen. It is concluded that the reform of the SBGSU should be carried out taking into account current security challenges, the principles of the rule of law, respect for human rights, and Ukraine’s integration into the European security area.
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