A New Life in the Italian Alps
In March 2022, fifteen‑year‑old Denys arrived in a quiet Alpine village in Italy, having been moved from an orphanage in Berdiansk, eastern Ukraine. He was among more than a hundred children whisked away by European authorities after Russia’s invasion forced the closure of their home shelter. The children now live under state care in Italy, hoping for stability while their homeland remains in conflict.
The evacuation was part of a broader EU response that relocated thousands of Ukrainian minors after the February 2022 invasion. International agencies coordinated transport, medical checks, and temporary housing. Many of the children, like Denys, were placed in foster families or state homes far from the front lines. Officials say the move aimed to protect vulnerable youths from bombardments, loss of caregivers, and the psychological trauma of war.
Denys describes his first night in the Alpine hamlet as a mix of fear and bewilderment. „The mountains were beautiful, but I missed the sound of the sea and my friends,” he recalled. Local volunteers helped the children settle, providing school enrollment, language lessons, and counseling. By June, most of the group had begun attending a nearby primary school, learning Italian while keeping Ukrainian as a home language.
Will These Children Ever Return to Ukraine?
The host community embraced the newcomers, organizing cultural exchanges and joint sports events. „Seeing these kids smile again reminds us why we opened our doors,” said Maria Rossi, a volunteer coordinator. Statistics from the Italian Ministry of Education show that over 2,000 Ukrainian minors have been integrated into schools across the country since 2022, with attendance rates exceeding 90 %.
The question of repatriation looms large. Some families hope to reunite with their children once the war ends, while others fear returning to a devastated home. UNICEF estimates that more than 5,000 Ukrainian children remain displaced across Europe, many without clear prospects of going back. Psychological assessments reveal heightened anxiety and attachment issues among the evacuees, prompting calls for long‑term mental‑health support.
European governments have pledged continued assistance, but funding constraints and shifting political priorities raise doubts. „We must plan for both scenarios: safe return or permanent settlement,” warned Elena Petrova, a child‑rights advocate. The uncertainty affects the children’s education, identity formation, and future employment prospects.
The displaced Ukrainian youths now face a crossroads. While Italy offers safety and new opportunities, the longing for home persists. Their future hinges on diplomatic resolutions, reconstruction efforts in Ukraine, and the willingness of host nations to provide lasting support.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Ukrainian children have been evacuated to the EU? Approximately 12,000 minors have been relocated to EU member states since the invasion, with Italy, Poland, and Germany receiving the largest numbers.
What support do the children receive in their host countries? They are provided with housing, schooling, language instruction, medical care, and psychological counseling, often coordinated by NGOs and local authorities.
Is there a plan for their eventual return to Ukraine? International agencies are developing repatriation frameworks, but the timeline depends on the security situation and the pace of reconstruction in Ukraine.