Cooperation for the Return of Ukrainian Children

August 26th, 2025

Yesterday in Bratislava, Mariam Lambert, CEO of Emile Foundation had the honour of signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Office of the Public Defender of Rights of the Slovak Republic.

The PDOR is an independent institution dedicated to safeguarding fundamental rights and freedoms. Partnering with such a trusted body gives strong legal and institutional backing to our shared mission: defending the rights of Ukrainian children abducted by Russia and strengthening child protection in situations of war and displacement.

Through this MoU, Emile Foundation and PDOR commit to:
🔹 Defend and promote children’s rights in the face of war and forced displacement
🔹 Share expertise, knowledge, and best practices in child protection
🔹 Provide methodological and legal support to strengthen responses
🔹 Organise joint seminars, trainings, and expert discussions
🔹 Conduct research and prepare recommendations for state and international bodies

The Slovak Public Defender of Rights has also expressed readiness to contribute as a neutral negotiating voice. Supporting Ukraine’s government initiatives for the return of abducted children and exploring avenues for prisoner exchange negotiations that could save lives and reunite families.

This is more than a formal step. It is a message to the international community. We must not forget the children who are victims of war. Together, we will work to restore their safety, dignity, and hope. And ensure that one day, every Ukrainian child can return home to their family.

Photo credit: Office of the Public Defender of Rights of the Slovak Republic.
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