Behind the Silence: Unmasking POW Realities

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Co-founders of the Association of Azovstal Defenders' Families, Olha Andrianova and Hanna Naumenko, took part in the event, along with Vladyslav Oksenchuk, a fighter of the 12th Azov Brigade, who shared his personal experience of being held in russian captivity.

Together with colleagues from other organizations, as part of a separate session titled “Civil Society and Media as Instruments of Change and Influence”, we discussed the role of public pressure, information efforts and international support in the process of securing the release of Ukrainian prisoners of war.

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The participants explored practical mechanisms for keeping the issue of prisoners of war on both the public and international agendas. Through case studies of collaboration with media, businesses, and civil society, they demonstrated how joint initiatives help maintain visibility of the issue in the public space.

Hanna also highlighted the role of educational projects and communication campaigns, while Olha emphasized the importance of public actions and international manifestations in supporting prisoners of war and their families.

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The Association also presented a brief map of digital platforms that systematizes information resources and initiatives helping to communicate the truth about prisoners of war.

Special attention was given to the “Moscow Convention”, which highlights the reality of how russia treats prisoners and underscores the need for international pressure to ensure the protection of prisoners’ rights.