The occupation continues. And while the fighting goes on, Russia is systematically destroying something that cannot easily be seen on a map: Ukraine’s human capital.
Deportations, forced displacement, total Russification, and militarization. Millions of Ukrainian citizens in the occupied territories are gradually losing their connection to the state, the language, and their identity.
Young people are especially vulnerable, as they have become a direct target of Russia’s deliberate influence.
What threats does this pose for Ukraine? It is not only about a demographic crisis, although that too. It is also a direct blow to the economy, the labour market, the education system, mobilisation potential, and the prospects for post-war recovery. Human capital is Ukraine’s key resource. And it is precisely this resource that is now under threat.
What does this loss mean in legal, demographic, and economic terms? Is return possible? How can Ukraine maintain ties with people living in occupied territories and prepare for reintegration?
Together with experts, we will explore these questions during an open discussion.
Speakers:
Kateryna Rashevska, expert at the Regional Centre for Human Rights and PhD in International Law;
Mariia Sulialina, Head of the Almenda Center for Civic Education;
Vladyslav Nimak, public activist and communications manager of the Separate Unmanned Aviation Service of the Ukrainian Volunteer Army.
Moderator:
Maksym Butkevych, journalist, human rights defender, public activist, and veteran with experience of captivity.
