Karazin University Hosts Forum “The Path of Return: Supporting Civilian Detainees”

On June 18, 2026, Yermilov Centre became the venue for the important forum “The Path of Return: Supporting Civilian Detainees”. The event was held as a regional interagency and human rights platform with a national context. It was organised by the Representative Office of the Ukrainian Parliament Commissioner for Human Rights in Kharkiv Region and the Charitable Organisation “Right to Protection Charitable Foundation”. The forum was supported by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and the Kharkiv Human Rights Protection Group.

During the opening session, participants discussed why the issue of civilians deprived of their liberty as a result of armed aggression against Ukraine requires a separate human rights and interagency response in Kharkiv Region. Particular attention was paid to the mandate of the Ukrainian Parliament Commissioner for Human Rights, the role of the regional Representative Office, and the principles of safe communication with affected persons and their families to prevent retraumatisation.

The forum discussions took place within the framework of three panel sessions:

1. Legal status, verification, documentation, and state response mechanisms.
2. Social, humanitarian, and financial support: the pathway for individuals and families following an appeal or release.
3. Medical, psychological, and rehabilitation support without retraumatisation.

During the discussions, participants thoroughly analysed key challenges, including the insufficient awareness of families in the regions regarding response procedures, difficulties in verifying information about the health conditions and whereabouts of detainees, the lack of a sustainable communication channel, and the absence of a unified regional assistance pathway. The urgent need to strengthen international advocacy efforts to increase pressure on the Russian Federation and the necessity of long-term support for released persons were also highlighted.

The main objective of the forum was to discuss urgent issues and identify where difficulties arise in providing assistance to affected individuals at the local level. Participants also coordinated approaches to the safe collection of information and documentation of crimes. The event aimed to unite the efforts of government authorities, law enforcement agencies, human rights defenders, and international organisations. Together, they will develop clear and practical recommendations for Kharkiv Region that may later contribute to improving such work in other regions of Ukraine.

Karazin University is proud to host events of such a high level, bringing together the efforts of the state, the international community, and human rights defenders in pursuit of justice and the protection of the rights of every Ukrainian citizen.