russian invasion sparks rise in civic engagement among youth: 10th Kyiv Security Forum for Youth kicks off in Kyiv

The 10th Kyiv Security Forum for Youth has emerged as a pivotal platform, fostering dialogue among young leaders on pressing issues of national security and international relations. The forum convened over 100 young leaders from across Ukraine, alongside prominent Ukrainian and international politicians, military officials, volunteers, civic activists, and experts. Media Center Ukraine served as the event’s media partner.

On the first day of the forum, participants delved into the myriad challenges confronting Ukrainian youth amid the ongoing war. Key topics included the youth’s contributions to national defense and involvement in hostilities, recovery and rehabilitation efforts, educational opportunities during wartime, and safeguarding the educational process.

A significant highlight was the presentation of the study “The Impact of War on Youth,” which revealed a notable increase in civic awareness among young people. Findings indicated that 47% of respondents recognized the importance of learning the state language and understanding the nation’s history, while 52% reported an increased engagement with Ukrainian content. Alarmingly, 49% of those surveyed in eastern Ukraine reported the loss of loved ones due to the conflict.

Anna Novosad, founder of SavED and former Minister of Education, highlighted the devastating impact of the invasion, noting that one in seven Ukrainian schools has been destroyed, with educational infrastructure continuing to be targeted. She underscored the urgent need to restore education in the affected areas, advocating for the preservation of existing educational frameworks.

Yaryna Chornohuz, a military medic and intelligence officer with the Armed Forces of Ukraine, stressed the necessity of equipping young people with the skills to withstand prolonged russian aggression.

“I am concerned that our youth lack adequate defense training in schools and universities. Every young person in this country should focus not on whether to emigrate, but on what career path to pursue and how they can contribute,” Chornohuz remarked.

Looking ahead, the second day of the 10th Kyiv Security Forum for Youth will feature discussions on documenting and preserving the truths of war for future generations, combating russian disinformation, and exploring strategies for Ukraine’s reconstruction. Notable speakers will include Oleksandra Matviichuk, Chair of the Board at the Center for Civil Liberties and Nobel Peace Prize Laureate; Sevgil Musayeva, Editor-in-Chief of Ukrainska Pravda; Roman Vashchuk, Business Ombudsman in Ukraine; and Katarína Mathernová, the European Union Ambassador to Ukraine, among others.

Read more: https://mediacenter.org.ua/news