How can we bring home children held by Russia

The return of Ukrainian children cannot wait for the war to end. Children held by Russia must come home — to safety and their families.

On 28–29 September, Ukraine, Canada and Norway are bringing international partners together in Toronto for the second Pathways to Peace conference, focused on returning Ukrainian children, unlawfully detained civilians and prisoners of war.

For every child, the path home requires coordinated action: establishing their whereabouts, securing humanitarian access, restoring contact with family and arranging a safe return.

Support must continue once a child is home — with rehabilitation, access to education and long-term care to help them recover and rebuild their lives.

International cooperation helps turn these priorities into practical support while increasing pressure on Russia and those responsible for violations of children’s rights.

Swipe through to learn how the International Coalition for the Return of Ukrainian Children works, what support Canada is providing and the priorities guiding partners in Toronto.