Lubinets urges government to regulate procedures for mandatory evacuation of children

He stated this on Telegram, Ukrinform reports.

"We all clearly understand that children cannot independently assess the level of threat during war or bear responsibility for the consequences. This is the responsibility of adults and the state. Therefore, I welcome the decision of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine to adopt the Law regulating the issue of mandatory evacuation, which has already been submitted to the President of Ukraine for signature. This is a difficult but absolutely necessary step in wartime conditions, when children come under fire every day," he wrote.

Lubinets noted that the new law is aimed at preserving the lives and health of children who remain in frontline communities and settlements under constant shelling. Guided by the best interests of the child, it defines the powers of authorities, parental responsibility, and clear mechanisms of action.

"There must be no gaps or uncertainty in this system. Therefore, I expect the government to regulate as quickly and clearly as possible in secondary legislation all procedural issues: the status of children evacuated forcibly without the consent of legal representatives, the evacuation procedures themselves, and the designation of those responsible for the child at every stage – from the moment of removal to further placement," he emphasized.

The Commissioner stressed that mandatory evacuation of children, including without parental consent, is a forced decision in wartime. According to him, it is vital, and therefore the state cannot afford delays when it comes to children's safety.

As Ukrinform reported, the Verkhovna Rada adopted the law regulating the issue of mandatory evacuation on February 10.

Photo: Dmytro Smolienko