Supporting children’s rights in Ukraine

Eurochild delivers training on the European Child Guarantee to UNICEF Ukraine’s staff.

On 27 August 2025, Eurochild, in collaboration with Maestral International and UNICEF Ukraine, delivered a training session for twenty-one UNICEF Ukraine’s Child Protection officers and specialists, focusing on the European Child Guarantee (ECG) and its relevance for children in Ukraine.

Eurochild is uniquely positioned to provide such training. As Europe’s largest network of organisations and individuals working for children’s rights, Eurochild has, together with other key allies, advocated for the creation of such an initiative since 2015. Over the years, Eurochild has consistently called for the ECG to be extended to enlargement countries. This training with UNICEF demonstrates our ongoing commitment to integrating the enlargement countries, including Ukraine, into the EU Acquis to strengthen children’s rights.

During the session, participants explored the origins and objectives of the ECG and examined promising practices from several EU countries. Case studies illustrate how countries are advancing the rights of children in need. A dedicated section focused on why the ECG is particularly relevant for Ukraine. With 70% of children lacking ‘access to basic goods and services’, millions displaced, and education and healthcare systems under strain, the ECG offers a valuable framework to address these needs. The training showed how the ECG could enhance Ukraine’s strategies for inclusive education, mental health, and social protection.

During an interactive exercise, participants analysed best practices in preventing family separation, supporting children in alternative care, and improving services for children with disabilities. Reflections emphasised the need for an integrated, holistic approach to care reform and the localised implementation of the ECG to meet the diverse needs of children across the country. Special attention was given to supporting the implementation of Ukraine’s 'Better Care' reform agenda.

After the 2-day training session we provided to Ukraine’s Coordination Centre in collaboration with Maestral International and UNICEF Ukraine in March 2025, this training gave us a valuable opportunity to share our experience and expertise in tackling child poverty and supporting services for children in need. As Ukraine moves towards implementing the ECG, we look forward to continuing our support throughout the process.