Odesa judge Roman Karavan stays in Czech Republic during business trip to Brussels

Disciplinary case against Odesa judge

The High Council of Justice (HCJ) is reviewing a disciplinary case opened against Roman Karavan, who held the position of judge at the Odesa District Administrative Court. The primary reason for the review is that in 2025, the official travelled on a business trip to Brussels but never returned to his home country.

Resignation application and leave refusal

On the last day of his official assignment, Karavan sent documents to the court administration. They contained an application for resignation at his own initiative, as well as a request for 45 days of unpaid leave. However, his request for additional time off was rejected.

Justification for staying abroad

The judge explained his absence by stating that he had moved to the Czech Republic to care for his father, who suffers from a serious illness. According to Karavan, his father has been living in Prague since March 2022, and he considers himself the only person capable of providing him with the necessary care.

In addition, the official stated that he fears pressure and persecution if he returns to Ukraine.

Position on evidence

At the same time, the judge provided no substantial evidence to substantiate these claims. Therefore, suspicions arise that he deliberately used the business trip to leave the country.