A seminar on the role of youth work in supporting the mental well-being of young people affected by war is taking place at the European Youth Centre in Budapest from 12-15 November.
According to a survey conducted in February 2023 among young Ukrainian respondents forced to flee their homes due to Russia's war against Ukraine, 73% expressed a need for more mental support after 24 February 2022. However, only 29.8% of respondents sought psychological help.
Widespread mental health issues among young people in Ukraine were also highlighted by the Ministry of Youth and Sports of Ukraine as one of the priorities for co-operation with the Council of Europe in 2023 and 2024. This was reflected in the Framework Programme for co-operation on youth policy between the Council of Europe and Ukraine under which the seminar in Budapest is held.
Youth workers and specialists working with young Ukrainians, including internally displaced persons (IDPs) and refugees, will share experiences and discuss the role of youth work in addressing the emotional and mental health challenges affecting young people as a result of the armed aggression of the Russian Federation against Ukraine.
Recommendations for different stakeholders on delivering youth work with young people affected by traumatic events due to war, military conflict and related crimes will be proposed at the event, which is being co-organised by the Council of Europe and the Ministry of Youth and Sports of Ukraine
