Yesterday, the Children Rights Protection Center in Kyiv hosted an evening of gratitude to all organizations involved in returning deported and forcibly displaced children of Ukraine Ukraine.
Despite the full-scale invasion and ongoing brutal horror from the Russian armed forces, Ukraine and its people remain committed to the mission of shaping a brighter future for its children, focusing on the creation of a nurturing family environment for each child.
As discussed during the meeting, ensuring a safe environment for Ukrainian children only becomes attainable via a multi-stakeholder, collaborative approach involving a wide range of organizations. The gathering hosted at the Children Rights Protection Center allowed for the exchange of views, expansion of dialogue, and expression of gratitude among all the stakeholders working on the mission to bring Ukrainian children home.
The meeting was attended by the Presidential Commissioner for Children's Rights and Rehabilitation, the representatives of the Human Rights Commissioner, the Ministry of Social Policy, the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Reintegration Temporarily Occupied Territories, the Ministry of Education, the Coordination Center for the Development of Family Education and Child Care, the National Social Service and child protection services as well as key civil society organizations like "Ukrainian Child Rights Network," "Save Ukraine," the "Voices of Children" Foundation, the "Smile" Foundation, and the "Foundation for the Future”.
Daria Herasymchuk, Advisor-Commissioner to the President of Ukraine for Children’s Rights and Rehabilitation emphasized: “Ensuring the feelings of safety and comfort for our children is paramount. Their return and reintegration are our top priorities”.
Iryna Tulyakova, the Head of the Coordination Center for the Development of Family Education and Child Care summarized: "Every Ukrainian child will feel at home as long as we collectively strive to create a nurturing environment for them".
As 2024 approaches, Ukraine stands firm in its commitment to deliver on the promise of a secure and thriving future for its children, despite the challenges imposed by external forces. The nation remains united in its dedication to the well-being and prosperity of its youngest citizens, demonstrating resilience and solidarity in the face of adversity.