At the War Museum, on the occasion of the third anniversary of the Coordination Headquarters for the Treatment of Prisoners of War, representatives of higher authorities, families of prisoners, released defenders, active military personnel, members of international organizations, and public figures came together to participate in the conference "Hope. Struggle. Return."
As noted by the Head of the Coordination Headquarters, Chief of the Main Directorate of Intelligence of the Ministry of Defence of Ukraine, Lieutenant General Kyrylo Budanov, "This event is not a celebration, but a reporting conference, where not only the results of the Headquarters’ work are presented, but also what can be done better by both official structures and society is discussed in an open dialogue."
In his inspirational speech, Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine Andriy Yermak recalled how a single unifying body was created to return our defenders home: "It was a decision of the heart and responsibility. The decision of the state, which firmly stated: we are fighting for every Ukrainian. We do not abandon our people."
"Let’s bring everyone back" is not just a slogan of the Coordination Headquarters but a motto for all its employees. This is confirmed by the eloquent statistics, where each figure represents the lives of the defenders saved, the long-awaited peace for their families, and hope for the loved ones of those who are still in russian captivity.
Over the three years of its activity, the Headquarters, overcoming incredible obstacles from the aggressor, his cruelty, meanness, and, as a result of difficult negotiations, carried out 61 exchanges. 4306 people were able to return to their relatives and friends, to the land free from the occupier. In addition to the exchanges, another 469 Ukrainians were also returned from russian captivity. And 7 thousand bodies of fallen defenders were also repatriated.
In addition, the Headquarters created a unique digital system, implementing technological and technical innovations in its activities, formed a network of regional centers, and introduced special projects to replenish the exchange fund.
One of the initiatives, "People for the Future," is aimed at children who, even during war, should experience childhood. As part of this project, 180 diverse events were held for young Ukrainians.
Conference participants also had the opportunity to join panel discussions on the topics of ethics and responsibility of the media when working with released prisoners, long-term support and reintegration into society after prolonged isolation in captivity, and the voice of families in the international arena. The panel speakers were former prisoners of war and their families, journalists, representatives of public organizations, government agencies, and authorities.
The unique photos that were presented at the exhibition "Breathe Again" in the lobby of the Museum caused a flurry of emotions—from pain for the prisoners of war to admiration for the indomitability of Ukrainian soldiers even in the hands of the enemy. These photos were taken by Tamara Pozniak during the exchanges.
The War Museum is sincerely grateful to the Coordination Headquarters for their tireless work, for each defender returned from captivity, and for the faith you instill in the hearts of Ukrainians.
Glory to Ukraine!
