Strengthening civil society to ensure children’s rights

The Strengthening Civil Society for Children’s Rights project aims to strengthen the role of civil society organizations in shaping policies that ensure children’s rights in Ukraine. It aims to make decisions regarding children more informed, transparent and in line with international standards.

In the context of war, the child protection system faces serious challenges: lack of resources, fragmented approaches, and limited influence of civil society in decision-making. At the same time, the need for systemic changes and consideration of the real needs of children, especially the most vulnerable groups, is critical.

Within the project, the Ukrainian Child Rights Network implements the following key areas:

• development of evidence-based monitoring of children’s rights, preparation of analytical materials and shadow reports for national and international advocacy;
• creating digital tools and a platform for collecting, analyzing and harmonizing data in the field of child protection;
• Strengthening the capacity of civil society organizations through training programs, experience exchange and technical support;
• Promoting gender equality and inclusion through the development and implementation of an appropriate marker for evaluating policies and services;
• advocating for changes in legislation, policies and budgets in favor of children; – expanding access to legal aid and information for children and families, including through digital solutions;
• Supporting the participation of children and youth in decision-making through consultations, research, and public discussions;
• developing a model of a child protection system focused on the needs of the child.

The project will help strengthen civil society, increase state accountability, and create a more effective system for protecting children’s rights in Ukraine.

Project duration: March 1, 2026 – December 31, 2028.

The project is implemented by the Ukrainian Child Rights Network in cooperation with the international humanitarian organization Save the Children with the financial support of the Government of Sweden (SIDA).