Minister of Finance discusses protection of Ukrainian children’s rights with the Special Envoy of the Council of Europe Secretary General

On 6 May 2026, Minister of Finance of Ukraine Sergii Marchenko held a meeting with the Special Envoy of the Secretary General of the Council of Europe on the situation of children in Ukraine Thórdís Kolbrún Reykfjord Gylfadóttir. Deputy Minister of Finance Olga Zykova also took part in the meeting.

The Minister expressed gratitude to the Council of Europe for its consistent support for Ukraine in protecting the rights of children affected by russian aggression.

The parties discussed financing for the return, rehabilitation, and long-term reintegration of Ukrainian children, including ensuring sustainable programmes for psychological support, education, and housing assistance, as well as strengthening coordination with international partners to effectively mobilise resources.

Special emphasis was placed on the need for stable funding of international accountability mechanisms, including the Register of Damage for Ukraine and the International Claims Commission under the Council of Europe, as well as on the importance of russia’s financial responsibility for crimes committed against Ukrainian children.

The Minister underlined that russia’s crimes against Ukrainian children, including illegal deportation and forced transfer, require a consolidated international response and adequate financial support for mechanisms to return children home.

“The return of Ukrainian children is not only a humanitarian priority but also a key prerequisite for a just and lasting peace. Ukraine counts on further strengthening international coordination and financial support in this regard,” said Sergii Marchenko.

Thórdís Kolbrún Reykfjord Gylfadóttir confirmed the readiness of the Council of Europe to continue supporting Ukraine in protecting children’s rights, ensuring their return, rehabilitation, and long-term recovery.

It is estimated that approximately 1.6 million Ukrainian children remain under russian control – illegally deported, forcibly transferred, or trapped in temporarily occupied territories.