Following reports of possible violations at the ‘Artek’ children’s camp in Berezniky, Ukraine, Ombudsman Dmytro Lubinets instructed his representative in the Zakarpattia region, Andrii Kryuchkov, to conduct a monitoring visit. At the time of the inspection, 287 children from ten regions of Ukraine, mostly from frontline areas affected by Russian aggression, were residing at the camp.
The monitoring revealed alarming conditions in the dining area, where signs of unsanitary practices, including flies and improper food storage, were noted. The inspectors found rotten fruits and vegetables stored alongside fresh produce.
According to the Ombudsman’s office, the camp failed to provide a dietary menu for children who required it.
In the living quarters, up to 12 children shared rooms, with worn-out furniture and bedding, insufficient storage for personal belongings, and the presence of mold and mildew.
Lubinets expressed particular concern regarding the state of the shelter, which was damp, moldy, lacked adequate seating, and necessary equipment. During discussions with the monitoring group, children reported that during air raid alerts, they primarily remained inside the building, adhering to a ‘two walls rule’ for safety.
“This is unacceptable! A child should not have to hide from a Russian missile behind two walls. A children’s camp must provide safe shelter,” stated the Ombudsman.
The report also highlighted the absence of a complete fence, inadequate lighting, and video surveillance, with some sports facilities in disrepair and an inoperative swimming pool.
Following the inspection, the Ombudsman’s office sent letters to the head of the Zakarpattia Regional State Administration and the head of the Main Department of the National Social Service in the region. Lubinets called for an investigation into who authorized the camp to operate under such conditions and to hold responsible officials accountable while taking urgent action.
Context
- On July 31, the Zakarpattia Regional Prosecutor’s Office announced a probe into the alleged poor living conditions for children at the ‘Artek’ camp after parents of children from Vyshneve, sent there for rehabilitation following a Russian strike, complained about unsanitary conditions, poor room and bathroom standards, lack of showers and furniture, and the organization of leisure activities. The Ministry of Social Policy of Ukraine also initiated an inspection.
