Protection of children’s rights as a component of Ukraine’s national security

The relevance of the study is due to the urgent need to address the critical state of children’s rights in the context of military aggression against Ukraine, which requires immediate measures to strengthen their protection. The main purpose of this study is to examine the concept of child security as an integral part of national security. Methodologically, the study is based on a critical analysis of scientific sources and the international and Ukrainian legal framework for the protection of children’s rights in general and in armed conflict in particular. The study also analysed relevant statistics. The results of the study highlight the state of child rights protection in Ukraine in the context of Russia’s full-scale invasion. The state of national legislation in the field of child protection and its compliance with international standards are examined, and ways to improve the Ukrainian legal framework are proposed. The urgency of expanding international cooperation to restore the psychological and moral well-being of children is substantiated. The author emphasizes the need to increase funding for organizations involved in supporting and protecting children’s rights, recognizing that children represent the future of the state. The author emphasizes the role of juvenile justice bodies in the implementation of the state’s domestic policy, which is an integral part of national security, is guided by international and national legal norms and is aimed at guaranteeing and protecting the rights and freedoms of children. Long-term perspective goals for state bodies are formulated. By addressing a previously unexplored area, the study improves understanding of the important link between child security and national security. In practice, the findings offer valuable insights for policymakers and stakeholders in protecting the rights and well-being of children, who are among the most vulnerable citizens in times of armed conflict.