The Radio Liberty investigation reports on possible violations at one of the children's institutions in the city of Zaporizhzhia.
After Russia’s full-scale invasion, Ukrainian services evacuated 54 children without parental care from the Zaporizhzhia Regional Center for Social and Psychological Rehabilitation to Poland. They were placed at the charitable foundation “Leleche Hnizdo” in Runowo. However, complaints soon emerged alleging humiliation, psychological pressure, and physical abuse by the director of the institution, who was also acting as their guardian. Journalists obtained video recordings and testimonies indicating that conflicts between staff and children were systemic.
Children and some employees described incidents involving insulting remarks, humiliation, and physical violence. One episode, recorded by a hidden camera during a conflict, allegedly shows the director overturning tables toward teenagers. A psychologist involved in working with the children stated that many of them were afraid to open up, and some were experiencing severe emotional stress.
In response, Polish authorities changed the children’s guardian and launched inspections, including questioning the director, the psychologist, and the children themselves. The Ukrainian consulate in Gdansk also intervened, but the consul allegedly tried to convince the children that their testimonies were “not true” and urged them not to write further statements.
The director of the institution denies the accusations, calling them unfounded and claiming that the children love her, citing her years of experience. The case concerning possible violations of children’s rights is currently being reviewed by a Polish court, while relevant Ukrainian and Polish authorities state that the situation remains under control and that further steps will be taken to protect the minors.
