52 Ukrainian orphans back home: return transport despite war!

52 Ukrainian orphans back home: return transport despite war!

Against the background of the continuing conflict in Ukraine, the return transport of 52 Ukrainian orphans and foster children from Burgenland will be prepared on Sunday, June 1, 2025. These children, who had been housed in Burgauberg-Neudauberg in the Güssing district since March 2022, are to be picked up by three buses at night and later travel on by train. The goal of this return journey is Kropiwnitskij, a region that has already been exposed to attacks in the past. Pascale Vayer from the “Little Hearts” association confirmed the details of the return transport and pointed out that a third of the children have a disability.

Return transport takes place under the responsibility of the Senecura Group, which is responsible for the accommodation of the children. A meeting with a representative of the Ukrainian embassy is to take place on Saturday afternoon to coordinate the return transport. Although the return transport was decided in consultation with Ukrainian authorities, this step also has criticism. The UN Refugee High Commissioner (UNHCR) has expressed concerns, while the state of Burgenland emphasizes that custody is subject to the children of the Ukrainian facility. In addition, comprehensive information about the security and circumstances of the home provision was obtained in order to ensure the most secure transport.

criticism and challenges

The return of the children is a complex challenge. In view of the uncertain location in Ukraine, it is uncertain how the return for the children will go. Some of the returning children could move to a children's home, while others may have the chance of adoption or return to their biological families.

The UNHCR has supported millions of people in Ukraine through various humanitarian aid measures in the past three years. Their work includes the distribution of emergency aid packages with vital goods as well as the provision of accommodation and psychosocial support. These auxiliary measures are particularly important to assist the person affected by the conflict and to meet basic needs such as food, medication and accommodation. In the current situation, close cooperation with the Ukrainian government, sister organizations and local partners is crucial.

With the return of the children to Kropiwnitskij, not only their personal history is put forward, but also the dynamics of humanitarian aid in the region are illustrated. It is to be hoped that the return for the children will be both safe and in their best interest.

Further information on the support and current developments in Ukraine can be found at Uno refugee aid

Details on the planned return transport and the reactions on it are in detail at 5min and BVZ to read.