The website of the President of Ukraine states that the first meeting was held in Kyiv.

Andriy Yermak, Head of the President’s Office, thanked Melanie Joly, Canada’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, for her leadership in this important matter. He added that the Bring Kids Back UA action plan initiated by Volodymyr Zelenskyy is based on the return of abducted children.

The participants received the founding document of the International Coalition. The document outlines the coalition’s mandate, goals, guiding principles, and areas of activity. It emphasizes that each state can independently determine its areas of activity or even take the lead, considering its experience, expertise, and resources.

The Coalition will identify the locations of illegally deported and forcibly displaced young Ukrainians. It will develop mechanisms for their return. It will participate in relevant diplomatic negotiations and issue all necessary documents.

After children return, it is important to support them by facilitating their reunification with relatives or placement in family-based care, providing necessary rehabilitation assistance, ensuring access to justice, etc.

Six more countries officially joined the International Coalition for the Return of Ukrainian Children during the meeting. Belgium, Costa Rica, Denmark, Germany, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom are the countries. The total number of member countries is now 28.