A pivotal ministerial conference on the humanitarian dimension of Ukraine's Peace Formula began today in Montreal. Hosted by Canada, Norway, and Ukraine, the conference aims to advance the fourth pillar of President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s Peace Formula, specifically focused on "Releasing Prisoners and Deported Persons." The event has gathered representatives from over 70 countries and international organizations, emphasizing practical solutions for the safe return of Ukrainian prisoners of war, civilian hostages, and abducted children.
Key Ukrainian delegates include Andriy Yermak, Head of the Office of the President; Deputy Prime Minister Olha Stefanishyna; Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha; and Daria Herasymchuk, Presidential Advisor on Children's Rights. They are joined by international allies who share a commitment to addressing the human rights violations affecting Ukrainians, especially children.
During the opening address, Andriy Yermak underscored the necessity of immediate action to return all hostages and deported Ukrainians. He highlighted the progress made by the International Coalition for the Return of Ukrainian Children, which now includes 41 member states, with Australia joining most recently. Yermak appealed to all participants to endorse the final communique, which outlines shared goals and specific steps to address these pressing humanitarian issues.
The conference agenda includes formulating a roadmap to support each phase of return and reintegration, prioritizing mental health and rehabilitation for those who have been rescued. One central focus is on enhancing international collaboration to trace the whereabouts of deported children, protect their rights, and end abuses such as forced assimilation. Foreign Minister Melanie Joly of Canada emphasized that “protecting individuals during conflict is fundamental not only to Ukraine but to global security,” calling on participants to work toward the return of children to Ukraine.
Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide highlighted the emotional toll of these numbers, reminding delegates that “this is not just about numbers, but real people, real families.” Vice Prime Minister Olha Stefanishyna of Ukraine stressed the need for international cooperation, urging countries to actively search for Ukrainian children who remain beyond contact, enduring forced separation from their heritage and families.
Adding a poignant perspective, actor and UNITED24 ambassador Liev Schreiber shared his commitment to supporting Ukraine’s efforts to return abducted children. Describing the reality of forced "reeducation" camps where Ukrainian children face ideological manipulation, Schreiber called on attendees to develop actionable measures to bring these children home, where they belong.
The conference builds on a series of previous thematic discussions, each addressing specific aspects of Ukraine's Peace Formula, as preparations for the second Peace Summit continue.