PACE parliamentarians Convene in Kyiv, Vowing Support for Ukrainian Children Amidst Renewed Russian Attacks
Kyiv, Ukraine – A high-level delegation from the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE) has concluded a critical visit to Kyiv, engaging in in-depth discussions with Ukrainian officials on the dire situation facing the nation’s children. The delegation, part of the newly formed PACE Network on the Situation of Ukrainian Children, met with representatives from the Ministry of Social Policy, the Verkhovna Rada, and various civil society organizations, underscoring a unified international commitment to safeguarding young lives.
The visit, occurring amidst a fresh wave of Russian aggression, focused on assessing the immediate needs and long-term strategies for protecting Ukrainian children. A central theme of the discussions revolved around the urgent reform of the childcare system, with a particular emphasis on ensuring every child has the right to grow up in a secure family environment.
Iryna postolovska, Ukraine’s Deputy Minister for European Integration, highlighted the nation’s unwavering priority: “Our priority is for every child in Ukraine to grow up in a safe family environment. We are also working on the return of children deported to Russia. They must return to safety, to families where they will receive support.”
Postolovska elaborated on the complete reintegration programs being implemented, designed to provide children with access to a wide spectrum of social, medical, and educational services. The focus on family-based care was a recurring point, with discussions involving key stakeholders including the Coordination Center for the development of Family-Based Care, the National Social Service of Ukraine, and UNICEF Ukraine.
The return of children forcibly evacuated abroad, particularly those in institutional groups, was also a important point of discussion. Postolovska stressed that these returns are being managed with the utmost consideration for each child’s best interests, following individual needs assessments. “A family environment is the priority for their placement upon return,” she stated. “We are doing everything to ensure that every child grows up in safety and with the support guaranteed by the state, acting solely in their best interests.”
The PACE Network, comprising parliamentarians from 46 Council of Europe member states, the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities, and observer countries, was established in June 2024. Its formation signifies a robust international framework dedicated to addressing the complex challenges faced by Ukrainian children.
The Ministry of Social Policy expressed profound gratitude for the PACE delegation’s active engagement and commitment to supporting Ukraine during this critical period. this collaboration marks a vital step in bolstering international advocacy and practical assistance for the protection of children’s rights in Ukraine.
