Ukraine's Government adopts strategy to ensure children's right to grow up in a family environment

The strategy, crafted with contributions from over 500 experts—including Eurochild member Ukrainian Child Rights Network— is set to be fully implemented by 2028.

In a recent update, our member explains that the strategy outlines a comprehensive reform of the childcare system and family support, uniting the efforts of government bodies, local authorities, and civil society organisations. It also tackles challenges brought on by the war, such as internal displacement, deportation, forced transfers to Russia, loss of family income or property, and the psychological and physical trauma children have endured.

Objectives of the strategy:

• Family Support: Establish mechanisms to assist families in raising children and ensure access to services for children with disabilities.
• Development of Family-Based Care: Promote adoption, foster care, and family-based placements, particularly for children with high support needs.
• Protection of Children Affected by War: Ensure the return of deported or evacuated children to safe family environments.
• Transformation of Institutions: Shift from institutional care to community-based support services for children and families.
• Youth Adaptation: Prepare young people with institutional care experience for independent living.
• Implementation Coordination:
• Strengthen human and financial resources to support reform implementation.

Expected Results

The number of children in institutions will decrease by 30%, including an 80% reduction in institutional care for children under three years old. By 2028, 95% of orphans will be raised in family-based care, while access to social, medical, and educational services for children with disabilities or special needs within local communities will increase by 30%.

The implementation will be coordinated by the Family-Based Care and Child Welfare Coordination Center, initiated by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and First Lady Olena Zelenska, with the support of European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. The Center operates as an advisory body to the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine, supported by the EU and UNICEF.