What is the hardest thing(s) about raising children in Ukraine?

Raising children in Ukraine is fraught with numerous challenges, exacerbated by ongoing conflict and economic instability. Here are some of the hardest aspects:

Economic Challenges

• Poverty: A significant portion of the Ukrainian population, including children, lives in poverty. This affects access to basic necessities and services12.
• Economic Instability: The ongoing conflict has depleted resources, making it difficult for families to provide for their children2.

Health and Well-being

• Access to Healthcare: Despite theoretically free healthcare, many children, especially those in rural areas or from poor families, face barriers in accessing necessary medical care1.
• Health Risks: The prevalence of diseases like AIDS and the legacy of the Chernobyl disaster pose significant health risks for children1.

Conflict and Displacement

• War and Violence: The ongoing war has exposed children to violence, displacement, and loss of family members, leading to psychological trauma34.
• Displacement and Separation: Many children have been forcibly transferred to other countries, separating them from their families and communities3.

Education and Development

• Disrupted Education: The conflict has disrupted education, with schools destroyed or forced to operate in unsafe conditions, leading to reliance on online classes4.
• Limited Access to Services: Children often lack access to essential services like education, healthcare, and social support, particularly in rural areas1.

Social Challenges

• Discrimination: Children from minority groups, those with disabilities, and others face discrimination, which further complicates their upbringing1.
• Child Labor and Exploitation: Some children are forced into dangerous work environments, such as coal mines or the sex trade1.