WAR IN EUROPE OP-ED: Call to rally nations to help Ukraine bring home children, detained civilians and POWs

Canada, Norway and Ukraine are set to gather foreign ministers and international partners in Toronto this month to bolster Ukraine's endeavors to reunite deported Ukrainian children, detained civilians and prisoners of war. Each day at 9am, Ukraine experiences a moment of silence. This silent observance reflects the absence of thousands of families who have lost loved ones to Russia's unlawful war.

Among these families are the thousands of Ukrainian children forcibly removed and unlawfully deported by Russia, losing crucial aspects of their identity along with their loved ones. Others are civilians unlawfully detained in territories temporarily occupied by Russia, enduring harsh conditions and denied contact with their families.

The situation poses a significant humanitarian challenge, requiring concerted global efforts. The upcoming Pathways to Peace conference aims to mobilize international support for Ukraine's efforts in returning, rehabilitating and reintegrating these individuals. Success hinges on sustained cooperation between governments, international organizations, humanitarian actors and civil society.

The conference, a sequel to a previous event hosted by Canada, Norway and Ukraine in 2024, will facilitate dialogue and collaboration to address the immense task at hand. The true measure of peace lies in the return of these individuals to their families, communities and homes, fostering healing and rebuilding in the aftermath of Russia's aggression.