Two young adults were successfully brought back from the temporarily occupied territory

As part of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s Bring Kids Back UA initiative, the Ukrainian Child Rights Network and Compass of Dreams have jointly helped return Arina* and Stas* from the temporarily occupied territory.

Forced passportization, psychological pressure, and attempts to recruit them into Russian youth movements were among the challenges they faced during their years under occupation.

During her departure, Arina had to undergo filtration. While under occupation, she experienced psychological abuse and was forced to obtain a Russian passport. Difficulties with obtaining documents and limited access to qualified medical professionals also prevented her from undergoing the necessary medical examination.

Arina avoided studying at Russian educational institutions. When asked about her education, she said she had not yet decided on a profession or was working unofficially. At the same time, she independently studied English and drawing.

Stas continued studying online at a Ukrainian school and completed the ninth grade. To avoid raising suspicions among Russian social services, he simultaneously followed the Russian curriculum. He later completed two years of study at a local college under the control of the occupation authorities.

During his studies, Stas was also subjected to forced passportization and psychological pressure. He was urged to join the Yunarmiya and the Yug Molodoy youth movement.

Arina and Stas are now in Ukrainian-controlled territory. Ahead of them lies the process of adaptation and reintegration, recovery from their experiences, and a gradual return to a stable and safe life.

We continue our efforts to ensure that every Ukrainian child and young person living under Russian control can receive the support they need and return safely to Ukrainian-controlled territory.

*Names have been changed for security reasons.