On 17 February, the Union of Ukrainian Women in Greece (UUWG) convened a high-level panel discussion at the Goethe-Institut Athen under the title “The War on Childhood: Forcible Transfer and Identity Erasure of Ukrainian Children by the Russian Federation.” The event brought together senior representatives of the Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Social Cohesion and Family Affairs, alongside diplomatic missions including the Embassy of Canada and the Embassy of Ukraine, as well as international experts, civil society actors, and members of the wider policy community. The discussion was moderated by Tina Michailidou, whose composed and perceptive facilitation enabled a focused and substantive exchange.

The panel examined the forcible transfer of Ukrainian children both as a violation of international law and as a humanitarian crisis with profound and long-term societal consequences. Speakers emphasized that the protection of children in armed conflict is a binding obligation under international law, that the separation of children from their families constitutes a fundamental obstacle to any just and lasting peace, and that accountability, supported by sustained international coordination, remains essential to restoring justice. According to verified data as of early 2026, more than 20,000 Ukrainian children have been unlawfully deported or forcibly transferred, while only 1,965 have been returned to date. Beyond the legal dimension, the discussion also addressed the psychosocial impact of identity erasure, highlighting its enduring effects on individual development and collective memory.

The panel was conceptualized and coordinated by independent researcher Olena Shevchyk, whose work framed the discussion within a broader analytical and human rights perspective. The event was made possible through the collaboration and support of the Embassy of Canada to Greece, the Embassy of Ukraine in Greece, the Goethe-Institut Athen, and the Ukrainian United Diaspora. Its implementation was carried out by a dedicated team, including Oksana Khlibyk (Communication), Anastasiia Kohut (Visual Design), Ioannis Papadimos (PR & Communications), and Olena Vasilatos (Translation).

Particular appreciation is extended to Candy Cat Patisserie for their refined hospitality, and to Linguamost Translations for providing high-level simultaneous interpretation that ensured clarity and accessibility throughout the discussion. The organizers also express their gratitude to the volunteers, whose professionalism and commitment were instrumental to the event’s success, with special recognition to Anastasia Pechlivanidou. Event photography was provided by Rostyslav Picchernii and Annie Atlasman.

The discussion reaffirmed the importance of sustained international attention, coordinated action, and principled dialogue in addressing one of the most urgent humanitarian challenges arising from the war. Through initiatives such as this, UUWG continues to foster spaces for accountability, awareness, and collective responsibility.