Repetskyi S., Habuda A. Topical issues of administrative and criminal liability for committing hooliganism

DOI: https://doi.org/10.33098/2078-6670.2025.19.31.396-405

Purpose. The aim of this study is to explore the current challenges related to administrative and criminal liability for acts of hooliganism, to define the criteria distinguishing petty from criminally punishable hooliganism, and to analyze such features as «offensive harassment of citizens», «other similar acts disrupting public order and peace», «gross violation of public order», «explicit disrespect for society», «exceptional cynicism» and «particular audacity». The study also aims to formulate proposals for improving the current legislation and law enforcement practices in Ukraine. Methodology. The methodology involves a comprehensive analysis and synthesis of existing scientific-theoretical and legislative materials, judicial practice, and the formulation of appropriate conclusions and recommendations. The following methods of scientific inquiry were used in the research: comparative legal, logical and grammatical, systemic-structural, and modeling. Results. The study reveals that current Ukrainian administrative and criminal legislation lacks clear criteria for distinguishing administrative from criminally punishable hooliganism. Most of the existing developments in this area are reflected in academic works and judicial practice; however, these sources do not fully disclose the content of the identified features. The relevant administrative and criminal legal provisions on hooliganism contain a significant number of evaluative terms, which complicates their practical application. Consequently, there remains a pressing need to legislatively define specific acts that qualify as petty or criminal hooliganism, which is essential for effectively combating such offenses and ensuring fair liability. Scientific Novelty. The research identifies a range of progressive approaches to addressing current problems of criminal and administrative liability for hooliganism, which may inform future legislative initiatives concerning liability for offenses in this area. A key novelty lies in the shift away from vague evaluative terminology towards the introduction of clearly defined regulations for hooligan acts in the Code of Ukraine on Administrative Offenses and the Criminal Code of Ukraine. This would ensure the principles of inevitability of punishment and fair liability for those found guilty of such offenses. Practical Significance. The findings of the study may be used in law enforcement and legislative activities for further refinement of Ukraine’s administrative and criminal legislation concerning liability for hooliganism. They may also be incorporated into the educational process when teaching and studying the disciplines «Administrative Law of Ukraine», «Criminal Law of Ukraine», «Contemporary Issues of Administrative Law and Procedure», «Administrative Jurisdictional Activities of Law Enforcement Agencies» and «Topical Problems of Criminal Law and Procedure».

Key words: hooliganism, petty hooliganism, administrative liability, criminal liability, offense, public order, gross violation, explicit disrespect for society, exceptional cynicism, particular audacity.

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