Day of Remembrance of Children Who Died as a Result of the Armed Aggression of the Russian Federation against Ukraine
June 4, Wednesday
Date of Observance
The holiday is observed annually on June 4. This date aligns with the International Day of Innocent Children Victims of Aggression, established by the United Nations, thereby linking Ukraine’s national remembrance with a broader global context.
Background and Establishment
The Ukrainian government officially established this day in 2021 amid the ongoing Russo-Ukrainian War, which began in 2014 with the annexation of Crimea and escalated significantly in 2022 with the full-scale invasion by Russian forces. The holiday was created to draw attention to the tragic consequences of the war on children and to ensure that their suffering and deaths are not forgotten.
Purpose and Significance
The primary goals of the observance include:
- Honoring the memory of children who have died as a result of the war.
- Raising awareness about the impact of armed conflict on children.
- Promoting peace and the protection of children’s rights.
- Encouraging international solidarity and support for Ukraine.
Commemorative Activities
On this day, various events and activities take place across Ukraine, including:
- Memorial services and candlelight vigils.
- Public speeches by government officials and child rights advocates.
- Educational programs in schools to teach children about peace and the importance of protecting human rights.
- Media campaigns to highlight the stories of affected families and children.
Impact of the War on Children
Since the beginning of the conflict, thousands of children in Ukraine have been killed, injured, or displaced. Many have lost access to education, healthcare, and a safe environment. The holiday serves as a national moment of mourning and reflection on these losses.
International Response
The observance also aims to garner international attention and support for Ukraine’s efforts to protect its children and hold aggressors accountable for war crimes and violations of international law.
The Day of Remembrance of Children Who Died as a Result of the Armed Aggression of the Russian Federation against Ukraine is a deeply meaningful day that underscores the devastating impact of war on the most vulnerable members of society. It is a call for peace, justice, and the protection of children’s rights in times of conflict.