In her report, Maria Lvova-Belova pointed out that efforts are currently underway to reunite 12 children living in European countries with their families in Russia. She noted that each of these children has close relatives in Russia who are ready to welcome them into their homes, and stressed that successful family reunification depends on required assistance from the countries where the children are presently residing: Germany, Poland, Switzerland, and the Netherlands.
Maria Lvova-Belova recalled that, in line with the President’s order, the institution of commissioners for children’s rights has been carrying out open and comprehensive work to reunite children with their families. Every case is assessed individually, with careful consideration given to the specific circumstances and the best interests of the child.
Since the beginning of the special military operation, the Commissioner has assisted in the reunification of 30 children with their family members in Russia. In addition, 141 children have been returned to their families in Ukraine and third countries.
The Commissioner stated that, over the years, a well-established workflow has been developed to support these efforts. In particular, cooperation has been established with US First Lady Melania Trump, the International Committee of the Red Cross, and the Vatican, while direct communication is also maintained with the Ukrainian side. According to the human rights advocate, this mechanism enables the regular exchange of up-to-date information, facilitates the clarification of the circumstances surrounding each case, and helps identify solutions even in the most complex situations. Maria Lvova-Belova also reminded families seeking assistance with reunification that they may submit requests by email at obr@deti.gov.ru or through the ICRC website.
During her report, the Commissioner addressed several other significant issues, including support for families and children affected by military action, violations of the rights of Russian children abroad, crimes committed against civilians (including minors), and misconceptions regarding the work of the Russian institution of commissioners that Western countries have circulated since the very onset of the special military operation.
Maria Lvova-Belova also spoke in detail about the regular bulletin on the protection of children during the special military operation. She noted that the fourth edition of the publication was released in May 2026 in both Russian and English.
In conclusion, Maria Lvova-Belova emphasised that the human rights institution approaches its work solely from a humanitarian perspective and does not believe that issues involving children should be politicised. She expressed her conviction that matters concerning the lives of children and families require direct dialogue, constructive cooperation, and a shared commitment to finding solutions. She stated that these principles have always guided the institution’s efforts and will continue to do so in its future activities.