A forum dedicated to the presentation of the annual report of the Ukrainian Parliament Commissioner for Human Rights for 2024 was held in Sumy Oblast.

The event brought together a wide range of participants: representatives of state authorities, local self-government bodies, educational institutions, human right institutions, law enforcement agencies, veterans, and public organizations.

SumDU actively participated in the discussion of key issues of human right protection in the context of war and recovery. The forum was attended by Vasyl KARPUSHA (SumDU rector) and members of the university student union.

The Sumy region, like the rest of Ukraine, has been in a full-scale war with Russia for over three years. The statistics for 2024 is horrific: 141 civilians in the region have been killed, including six children. Over 1,500 private homes and about 400 high-rise buildings have been destroyed or damaged. Thousands of people have been forced to leave their homes, become internally displaced persons, or move abroad.

Members of the SumDU Student Union, students of the Law Institute shared their impressions of participating in the forum.

“This was my first experience of such events, so it was interesting to see what a live report looks like when all relevant parties are present. The topics covered virtually all aspects of human rights: recruitment offices, civilian prisoners, deportation of children, conditions in medical and educational institutions, detention. Everything was presented clearly, with specific examples and figures. Representatives from various fields gave presentations (judges, prosecutors, representatives of the State Emergency Service, heads of educational institutions, students). It was interesting to hear the latest information on human rights in Sumy Oblast, to feel involved in the discussion of an extremely serious topic, and to receive important data directly from the people in charge”, – said Kyrylo KRYVOMAZ (secretary of the student union).

“For me, it was an understanding that even in such difficult times, there is support, opportunities for appeal and cooperation, and a place where you can seek protection of your rights and assistance. This proves human rights are a priority, even when there is war around,” – added student Mariia PRYKHOZHAI.