Russia indoctrinating 1.6m Ukrainian children, report finds

An independent report, mandated by the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), alleges that Russia is systematically indoctrinating approximately 1.6 million Ukrainian children in occupied territories. Experts suggest this program of military indoctrination could constitute a crime against humanity.

The report, presented in Vienna, found that Russia has implemented a systematic program to integrate young people into its army in areas seized from Kyiv. Researchers noted that children, parents, and teachers are targeted if they attempt to maintain their Ukrainian identity. "We think ... that this system of indoctrination and militarisation may amount to the crime against humanity of persecution," stated French researcher Herve Ascensio.

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We think ... that this system of indoctrination and militarisation may amount to the crime against humanity of persecution.

According to Latvian expert Elina Steinerte, pro-Kremlin authorities are conscripting Ukrainians in occupied territories at a younger age than in Russia itself. The report documents training camps and classes on handling weapons and drones imposed on Ukrainian children, as well as cases of young adults being drafted and sent to the front lines. Steinerte also highlighted the significant challenge of reintegrating children who have returned from Russia.

The experts recommend placing the issue of children on the agenda for any talks aimed at ending the conflict and advocate for the opening of humanitarian corridors to facilitate family reunification. The report is the result of the Moscow Mechanism, initiated by 41 OSCE states to investigate grave human rights abuses. Russia did not cooperate with the investigation, which involved interviews and fieldwork in Ukraine.

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We interviewed young adults who have left their families behind to escape conscription.