Beyond the wire: Justice for Ukrainian prisoners of war

All events

PAST
EVENT

May 20, 2025

14:00-15:00

In Person

Location: Rue du Trône 14-16, 1000 BrusselsEPC Conference Centre3rd Floor. Venue: 3rd Floor

The European Policy Centre (EPC) is pleased to invite you to a Policy Dialogue addressing the urgent issue of the treatment of Ukrainian prisoners of war (PoWs) and civilian detainees held in Russia.

Over 8,000 Ukrainians remain in Russian captivity, including 2,000 civilians who must be released unconditionally under international humanitarian law. Despite repeated calls by the international community, these individuals continue to endure degrading and unlawful conditions. The defenders of Mariupol, in particular, face abuse, torture, and forced convictions in clear violation of international law.

This Policy Dialogue will explore concrete actions to ensure the humane treatment of detainees, including access by the Red Cross (ICRC), medical monitoring, legal support, and consistent contact with families. It will also highlight the psychological toll on the families of detainees and the pressing need for greater international oversight, transparency, and accountability.

The event will include a moderated panel discussion followed by an open Q&A session with the audience.

Participation is open to EPC members only, the media, and EU officials

Moderator Speakers

Amanda Paul

Moderator

Senior Policy Analyst & Deputy Head of Programme, European Policy Centre

Bogdan

Speaker

Representative of the Coordination Headquarters for the Treatment of POW

Victoria

Speaker

Representative of the Coordination Headquarters for the Treatment of POW

Vladyslav H.

Speaker

Sailor, Former Prisoner of War

Vladyslav Z.

Speaker

“AZOV” brigade Soldier, Former Prisoner of War

Volodymyr

Speaker

Major of Medical Service, Former Prisoner of War

Yevhenii

Speaker

Junior Sergeant, Former Prisoner of War

Europe in the World

The Europe in the World (EiW) Programme scrutinises the impact of a changing international system on Europe and probes how the EU and its member states can advance their interests and values on a regional and global level. It examines the EU’s relations with both major and middle powers around the world, and how Europe can continue to contribute to a rules-based global order. Secondly, the Programme focuses on the role of the EU in fostering reform, resilience and stability in neighbouring regions and looks closely at developments in Turkey and Ukraine, among other countries. Thirdly, the Programme examines and seeks to advance the development of Europe’s security and defence policy.

Details