‘My future is in the EU’: the Ukrainian children who don’t want to go home

What Happened

Following the Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022, thousands of children from Ukrainian orphanages were evacuated to European countries, including Italy. While the Ukrainian government has sought to repatriate these children, over 1,500 remain abroad. Some children, such as 17-year-old Denys, have resisted return orders issued by Kyiv in August 2024, citing concerns over the ongoing war, potential military conscription, and limited future opportunities. In some instances, Italian courts have intervened to block repatriation, with cases involving legal adoption by Italian families despite existing Ukrainian laws that suspended international adoptions in May 2022.

Key Actors

Why It Matters

The retention of Ukrainian children in Europe represents a significant demographic and social challenge for Ukraine, which is already facing a declining birthrate and the loss of thousands of children to Russian-controlled territories. The conflict between repatriation efforts and the children's desire to remain in the EU highlights the strain of the war on the country's long-term social stability and the integrity of its state-run welfare systems.

Watch For

Monitor further legal rulings in Italian courts regarding the adoption of Ukrainian minors and any potential diplomatic friction between Kyiv and EU member states over the enforcement of repatriation orders for children currently residing in foster care.