The UN Special Representative of the Secretary-General for children and armed conflict (CAAC), Ms. Virginia Gamba, completed a 2-day mission to Ukraine during which she engaged with the Government to discuss the impact of the conflict on children including how to enhance the protection of children in Ukraine and prevent grave violations.

The visit follows the Secretary-General’s request to the Special Representative to engage with all parties to the conflict to urgently address child protection issues, including the prevention of violations against children (A/76/871-S/2022/493).

During her visit, she met with government officials, including the Interministerial Committee on Children and armed conflict, chaired by Ms. Daria Herasymchuk and with the United Nations.

The Special Representative commended the Government for the measures taken to protect children, including the appointment of a focal point and the establishment of an Interministerial committee comprised of all line ministries including the ministries of Defense, Foreign Affairs, Justice and Interior among others as well as the Ombudsperson and the Prosecutor General offices. She welcomed the initiative of Ukraine to develop a National Plan to prevent grave violations. The Special Representative further commended Ukrainian efforts to ensure children’s continued access to essential services including health and education. She also commended the work of the United Nations and its partners on the ground.

“The war in Ukraine is having a devastating impact on children who are disproportionately affected by hostilities and are enduring violations of their rights. Children have been killed or maimed, their schools and hospitals have been attacked and the unbearable levels of violence they are experiencing daily is leaving deep scars that will last for a lifetime,” said Virginia Gamba. “The United Nations stands ready to assist Ukraine in its efforts leading to the better protection of children in Ukraine including continuing discussions leading to a joint prevention plan.”

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For additional information, please contact:

Fabienne Vinet, Communications Officer, Office of the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Children and Armed Conflict

+1-212-963-5986 (office) / +1-917-288-5791 (mobile) / vinet@un.org

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