This week’s third anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion has been marked by more reflections on the impact of the devastating conflict.
One little reported consequence has been the impact it has had on children and young people in Ukraine.
Eurochild, a Brussels based organisation, has therefore shared some insights from its members in Ukraine about the pressing priorities for children’s wellbeing.
One such Eurochild member spoke of
“3 years of war escalation, 167 drones per night and 1 daily minute of silence to honour one’s dead.”
She says,
“In 21st-century Europe, we have to count things that should never happen again.”
“In this reality, I am engaged in multiple national actions related to children’s rights and child protection, currently with a key focus on children’s access to justice. It is extremely hard to promote rights within a system that is being ruined by war in many senses: physical destruction, loss of human resources, and loss of trust in peace and democracy.”
“It increases injustice and requires the permanent and confident involvement of national practitioners and the international community. Thankfully, we don’t have to explain that people need medical services even if they are not war-injured; that children need education, and that it should not be only about war.
“But we see a lack of resources for human rights issues beyond the direct impact of war, and we have to advocate and fight for every child’s rights protection stronger than ever to keep children’s human rights on national and local agendas—both in humanitarian and non-humanitarian contexts.”
On a similar theme the Voices of Children Foundation has studied the psychological impact of war on Ukrainian children and conducted a survey, revealing how their mental health needs have evolved over the three years of full-scale war.
It says the psychological needs of Ukrainian children have evolved significantly over the three years of full-scale war.
Its report adds,
“Initially, most children sought help for acute stress reactions—heightened anxiety, emotional outbursts, and trouble concentrating. However, as war became a prolonged reality, their challenges deepened.
“Many have adapted to constant sirens and displacement but now struggle with social interactions, motivation, and long-term planning. Cognitive abilities, such as memory and focus, have also suffered, making education and peer relationships difficult. The Voices of Children psychologists report that children from frontline regions face particularly severe trauma, including PTSD, self-harm, and substance use as coping mechanisms.
“Parents and caregivers are also seeking more support, as conflicts within families intensify. Many struggle with their children’s growing aggression, withdrawal, and defiance.
Psychological services now address not only individual trauma but also family dynamics and social reintegration. The need for professional intervention is greater than ever, requiring a holistic approach that combines therapy, community support, and structured resilience-building programs.”
It goes on,
“The Voices of Children remains at the forefront of this mission, ensuring that no child is left alone in their pain, and that they receive the care they need to rebuild their future.”
