Status of 'Child of War' in Ukraine: Who is Entitled to Benefits and How to Obtain Them

Status of 'Child of War' in Ukraine

The National Social Service of Ukraine has explained the conditions for obtaining the 'Child of War' status and the list of benefits for this category of citizens. The 'Child of War' status is certified by the social protection authorities and entitles the holder to various social benefits.

Conditions for Obtaining the Status

Application for the status is possible with a specific list of documents. These include:

• birth certificate or ID card
• applicant's passport
• document proving family ties
• IDP certificate
• foreign passport
• excerpt from the register
• medical treatment records
• documents concerning legal violations

If the child is under 14 years old, the documents are submitted by the parents or closest relatives. After reaching 14 years, the child has the right to apply independently.

Benefits for 'Children of War'

Benefits for 'Children of War' include:

• the right to preferential employment retention
• priority allocation of land plots
• ability to take vacation at a convenient time
• payment of disability benefits at 100% of average salary
• 25% discount on utility bills
• additional vacation of up to 2 weeks per year
• the right to inpatient medical care

The Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine approved amendments to legislation on February 19, 2014, aimed at strengthening the social protection of children affected by armed aggression from the Russian Federation. As part of this, mechanisms for compensating harm to the life and health of children were introduced. The government also proposes to establish a Unified Information Database on the harm caused to personal non-pecuniary rights and supports the transition to an 'interdisciplinary commission' to increase the effectiveness of decision-making.

Thus, the status of 'Child of War' in Ukraine provides opportunities for obtaining significant social benefits designed to support children affected by war. In the context of prolonged armed aggression, these measures are essential for ensuring social protection of vulnerable population groups and restoring social justice. Supporting children affected by the conflict must become a priority for the state, considering their special needs and the challenges they face in everyday life.