The Center for Countering Disinformation at the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine has published an analytical report on the militarization of Ukrainian children in the temporarily occupied territories. The document reveals the methods used by the Russian authorities to recruit children into military structures in violation of international norms.
Source: cpd
Key facts and figures
- More than 9,500 children attended military-patriotic clubs and camps organized by the occupiers.
- Organizations like Yunarmiya, a youth association that is part of the Russian Armed Forces, are actively working in the occupied territories.
- Children are taught how to handle weapons, the basics of military tactics, and conduct training sessions that simulate combat operations.
The report also notes that these activities are accompanied by large-scale ideological processing aimed at shaping children’s pro-Russian views, justifying the war, and promoting “patriotism” based on the Kremlin’s model.
The actions of the Russian Federation in the occupied territories are a gross violation of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, which prohibits the involvement of children in armed conflict.
“The militarization of children in these regions not only contributes to further escalation of the conflict, but also forms a generation ideologically inclined to support Russia’s aggressive policy,” the report says.
It is also noted that children are taught military skills under conditions of coercion or pressure, often through schools or other educational institutions where the occupiers integrate their programs.
Ukraine appeals to the international community to increase sanctions pressure on Russia, as well as to create monitoring mechanisms to prevent further exploitation of children.
- It is necessary to intensify investigations within the framework of international judicial bodies to bring the perpetrators to justice.
- Ensure humanitarian access to children in the occupied territories.
The militarization of children is not only a violation of their rights, but also creates the basis for further conflict. Addressing this problem requires coordinated action by the international community, governments and civil society organizations.
The figures and facts of the report emphasize the scale of the problem, which affects the future of Ukrainian children and the security of the region.
You can read more about the document on the official website of the Center for Public Advocacy.
