A significant forum titled «Human Rights in Times of War» was held in Odesa.  

This event brought together representatives from government bodies, law enforcement, diplomats, as well as volunteers and business leaders to discuss pressing issues and develop solutions aimed at reducing the vulnerability of the population, promoting rehabilitation, and providing real support. 

The forum was organized by the regional office of the Commissioner of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine for Human Rights. 

Maria Popova, the representative of the Commissioner in the Odesa region, shared the results of her office's work over the past year. 

In 2024, the most common requests were related to the rights of military personnel and their families. Therefore, discussions focused on the following key topics: 

• ensuring the rights of servicemen, 
• rehabilitation of veterans, 
• support for families of fallen defenders. 

«For us, protecting human rights is not just a slogan, but a daily commitment. We must support those who have sacrificed their health for our country and are in need of special attention today. Justice means not only aiding those who fought but also preventing the exploitation of their heroism for personal gain. Those who hide behind their backs, neglecting responsibility, will certainly face consequences from society,» said Odesa Mayor Hennadiy Trukhanov.