Action plan for the return of Ukrainian children: Ukrainian NGOs address the global community

The NGO “Responsible Citizens” joined a statement by 48 NGOs ahead of the Human Dimension Ministerial Conference on Ukraine’s Peace Plan, scheduled for October 30-31 in Montreal.

The signatories emphasize that tens of thousands of Ukrainian children have been deported or forcibly displaced, with over 90% still in Russian families or institutions, in violation of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, particularly regarding the preservation of identity and access to education.

In response, the signatory organizations provided recommendations for inclusion in the Action Plan with concrete measures for returning the children and in documents created after the Ministerial Conference.

“Responsible Citizens,” as one of the leading humanitarian organizations in eastern Ukraine, fully supports this position and is ready to contribute to its implementation. As Olga Kosse, the Head of the Board, states:

“The mass forced displacement of Ukrainian children is not only a tragedy for our country but also a challenge for the entire international community. It is a gross violation of fundamental human rights. We must use all means to draw global attention to the need to protect our children and make this a priority in global diplomacy. Our organization will work both internationally, continuing to advocate for these principles, and in Ukraine, providing real assistance to those most affected by the war.”

“Responsible Citizens” calls for the consolidation of efforts by NGOs, governments, and international partners to ensure children’s rights in Ukraine. Without proper attention to human rights, Ukraine will lack a foundation for sustainable development.

The statement was initiated by the Ukrainian Child Rights Network.

View the full text of the statement