On October 31, 2024, a ministerial conference in Montreal concluded with a historic commitment to reunite all Ukrainian nationals, including abducted children by Russia. Participants endorsed a Joint Communiqué, introducing the "Montreal Commitment," which aims to advance Ukraine’s collaboration with international partners in bringing civilians and children safely back home.
A key outcome includes the establishment of a group of mediator nations to facilitate negotiations with Russia for the return of Ukrainian children. Qatar, the Vatican, and South Africa will serve as principal mediators, with Qatar and Lithuania offering transit options, while the UAE continues to support the exchange of prisoners of war. Additionally, countries like Norway, Canada, and others pledged to assist in locating deported and detained Ukrainian children.
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha highlighted that the conference results will bring actionable steps to many Ukrainian families awaiting reunion. Canadian Foreign Minister Mélanie Joly emphasized the critical importance of international cooperation in realizing the process of returning Ukrainian children, noting that this support remains integral to Ukraine’s Peace Formula.
In addition, the conference participants committed to aiding Ukraine in reintegrating returned citizens and, through strategic communication campaigns, raising global awareness about Russia's human rights abuses, including deportations and forced transfers of children.