Greece has joined the International Alliance for the Return of Children to Ukraine as a full member, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced on Wednesday. Through this participation, our country actively contributes to the international mobilization for the safe return of children to Ukraine who have been illegally transported or forcibly displaced by Russian forces.

“The decision to participate in this initiative underlines Greece’s commitment to implement International Law and protect children’s rights, in close cooperation with its international partners. “Greece is ready to contribute to the provision of humanitarian, medical and psychological support to children and families affected by the devastating consequences of violent displacement,” the Ministry of Foreign Affairs points out.

It is noted that:

  • This is a joint Ukrainian-Canada initiative, which was officially announced in Kyiv on February 2, 2024.
  • Its purpose is the return of children illegally abducted from Russia to their families in Ukraine.
  • It is noted that the above purpose is included in the 4th point of the “Ukrainian Peace Formula”.
  • In order to achieve it, the coordination of actions between Ukraine and the member states of the Alliance, the exchange of information between them, the provision of know-how and financial support, as well as the awareness of public opinion and communication of the work of the Alliance are foreseen.
  • Of the thousands of children estimated to have been abducted from Russia, fewer than 400 have been successfully returned to their homes in Ukraine.
  • The Alliance includes, among others, Argentina, Japan and Chile, while the European Union recently joined the Alliance with observer status.