Executive Summary
International Volunteer Legal Framework: pathway for 5,000+ volunteers. Components: legal combatant status (Geneva protections), security vetting procedures (background checks, allied verification), integration into military command, benefits and compensation, injury and death provisions, path to residency/citizenship, and home country coordination. Pre-crisis preparation enables rapid, secure integration during conflict.
In short: 5,000+ volunteer capacity framework; Geneva Convention combatant status; Security vetting procedures
The Problem
Ukrainian International Legion success and chaos: 20,000+ foreign volunteers arrived, but legal framework was improvised. Ukrainian Legion commander: 'First month, volunteers came with no vetting. We had ex-military professionals alongside criminals. No legal status, no benefits, no clear rules. We lost time and people sorting chaos.' Lithuanian potential: large diaspora, allied citizens willing to serve, but no legal pathway exists. Without pre-crisis framework, volunteers create security risks and legal ambiguity.