Following the Third Plenary Meeting of the International Coalition for the Return of Ukrainian Children, on October 1, member countries presented reports on their significant contributions and ongoing initiatives to support Ukraine in its mission to return and rehabilitate children abducted by Russia.
The efforts highlighted showcase the Coalition's continued dedication and collaboration over the past six months:
The Netherlands has played a pivotal role in establishing a DNA database to aid in the long-term identification and return of Ukrainian children. Through a project in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the Netherlands has initiated training sessions for Ukrainian police officers on using DNA devices, enabling them to trace and identify abducted children more efficiently.
The United Kingdom, alongside other partner countries, has provided substantial backing to the Bring Kids Back UA Task Force through the Partnership Fund for a Strong Ukraine. The UK’s support focuses on raising awareness about the plight of abducted Ukrainian children by conducting information campaigns, especially in the Global South to build international awareness around the illegal deportation of Ukrainian kids.
The United Kingdom and other countries, through the Partnership Fund for a Strong Ukraine, continue to support the work of the Bring Kids Back UA Task Force and help conduct information campaigns in the Global South to raise awareness about the issue of abducted Ukrainian children.
Latvia has taken a proactive approach by organizing summer camps dedicated to the psychological rehabilitation of approximately 600 Ukrainian children affected by the war.
Estonia has been actively involved in collecting data on deported Ukrainian children and offers opportunities for their rehabilitation. By supporting non-governmental organizations that collaborate with Ukrainian agencies, Estonia has ensured that accurate and up-to-date information is maintained in the database of deported children, facilitating ongoing efforts to bring them home.
The European Union has demonstrated its commitment to addressing the issue of forced child deportations by imposing sanctions on over 60 individuals and organizations responsible for the unlawful transfer and deportation of Ukrainian children. These sanctions include measures against prominent Russian officials, such as Maria Lvova-Belova.
Germany supports rehabilitation programs and offers psychosocial aid to Ukrainian children.
The contributions made by these countries highlight the international community's determination to support Ukraine in its mission to bring back every child unlawfully deported by Russia.
The Bring Kids Back UA initiative extends its sincere gratitude to all Coalition partners for their steadfast support and contributions.