UWC Vice President joins presidential office discussion on repatriating Ukrainian children from Russia

South Africa has the potential to play a crucial role in protecting the rights of Ukrainian children and facilitating their return from forced deportation, says Dzvinka Kachur, UWC Regional Vice President for Africa and co-founder of the Ukrainian Association of South Africa (UAZA) non-profit organization.

Kachur joined a pivotal discussion with members of the Bring Kids Back UA initiative, Andriy Yermak from Ukraine’s presidential office (OP), and the Baroness Helena Kennedy Centre for International Justice human rights advocacy on Jan. 20.

As a country committed to human rights, South Africa cannot  justify its inaction by claiming neutrality in Russia’s war against Ukraine, she said. 

“The separation from families causes long-term trauma, especially for young children who risk losing all memory of their pre-deportation lives. Further indoctrination and militarisation of children must be prevented,” the Baroness  said.

The association also highlighted that public support for this issue is critical in raising awareness and prompting action.

“South Africa’s support for resolutions addressing these deportations is essential,” the OP  said. 

“President [Cyril] Ramaphosa previously urged the return of Ukrainian children in 2023, yet Russia has not complied, despite the ICC warrant and international appeals,” Kachur said. 

The OP pointed out that South Africa has already shown its willingness to mediate in the return of Ukrainian children, with India potentially joining such a coalition of countries. Ukraine has urged both nations to participate in the International Coalition for the Return of Ukrainian Children.

“Such a step would demonstrate their leadership in addressing global humanitarian crises,” the OP said.

Earlier, 13 South African human rights nonprofit groups called for the return of Ukrainian children from Russian abduction.