Switzerland has officially joined the International Coalition for the Return of Ukrainian Children, which brings together states and international partners to facilitate the return of unlawfully deported and forcibly displaced Ukrainian children.

The accession of Switzerland was announced by the President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, during his video address at the Coalition meeting on 11 May 2026.

“Today, Switzerland and Cyprus are joining our Coalition. Nearly 50 countries are now united within this initiative,” the Head of State stated.

The President of Ukraine thanked the European Union and all countries participating in efforts to locate and return Ukrainian children. According to him, the Coalition members are united by a common goal — to investigate the abduction of children, return them home, and support their recovery and reintegration into family life.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy stressed that the international community must respond collectively to crimes committed against Ukrainian children, as this concerns fundamental values and international accountability.

The President also underlined the importance of continued support for the Bring Kids Back UA initiative, including projects related to tracing, reintegration, rehabilitation, and strengthening international pressure on Russia.

The International Coalition for the Return of Ukrainian Children was launched on 2 February 2024 and currently unites nearly 50 states. Since the Coalition began its work, 2,134 Ukrainian children have been successfully returned home.

The Embassy of Ukraine in the Swiss Confederation welcomes Switzerland’s decision to join the Coalition and highly appreciates the support of the Swiss side in protecting the rights of Ukrainian children and ensuring international accountability for crimes committed against them.