The European Network of Ombudspersons for Children (ENOC) adopted an ad-hoc statement during its 28th General Assembly in Helsinki, Finland, on the protection of the rights of children affected by the armed aggression of the Russian Federation against Ukraine.
Since the beginning of the armed aggression in February 2022, children in Ukraine have witnessed grave and ongoing violations of their rights and well-being. Thousands have been killed, injured, or reported missing. Many face forced displacement, separation from families, or deportation to the Russian Federation and Belarus. Others live in alarming conditions without access to essential needs such as food, water, healthcare, and education. Homes and vital infrastructures, including schools and hospitals, have been destroyed.
The psychological impact on children is devastating. The constant exposure to violence and displacement has left millions of children traumatised, with many experiencing trouble sleeping and intrusive thoughts. Education has been severely disrupted, with nearly half of school-aged children in Ukraine unable to attend in-person schooling, and many refugee children in Europe missing out on education and social interaction.
ENOC calls for immediate action to protect Ukrainian children, urging the Russian Federation to end all violations and comply with international humanitarian law. Adapted healthcare, mental health support, and education are critical to address their needs. ENOC stands in solidarity with the children of Ukraine and calls on the international community to act decisively to protect their rights.
Read the full statement HERE.
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