Young Voices. The Report on the Rights of the Child in Ukraine by Group Children Rights in Ukraine

YOUNG VOICES

THE REPORT

ON THE RIGHTS OF THE CHILD IN UKRAINE 2017

Young Voices. The Report on the Rights of the Child in Ukraine This publication is a product of joint efforts of the «Child Rights in Ukraine» Coalition experts and the working group of children, who teamed up to explore and describe the situation with children’s rights in Ukraine from the viewpoint of children themselves. This study is important for better understanding of problems that children face in their everyday lives; it also offers recommendations concerning changes to improve protection of the rights of the child. This report can be used in discussions with policymakers and other stakeholders to raise issues that concern children and youth. Team of contributors: Writing of the report: Experts of the NGO Coalition «Child Rights in Ukraine»: Svitlana Tarabanova, Maria Yasenovska, Oksana Moskalenko, Ganna Mamalyga, Yulia Savelieva. Participants of the working group: Tetiana Avhustyniuk, Anna Bakanova, Yulia Bublyk, Varvara Melania Volokyta, Zlata Voitsykhovska, Olena Dikhtiaruk, Ksenia Dubina, Tamara Zakharova, Mykola Ilashchuk, Ilona Karlinska, Natalia Korol, Yaroslav Lyashenko, Oksana Morozova, Anna Savelieva, Viktor Skorniakov, Elina Sushchenko, Hennadiy Tamulevych, Valeriya Sharhala, Artemiy Shumnyi, Nazariy Shumnyi, Artem Yakymenko, and others. Conducting the survey: the Ukrainian Marketing Association and children – members of the working group. Formal review of the questionnaire: the Ukrainian Scientific and Methodological Centre of Applied Psychology and Social Work. The Ukrainian Marketing Association team: Iryna Lylyk, Yulia Vdovenko, Oleksandr Hladunov, Maya Holovanova, Victoria Zhydok, Svyatoslav Zhukov, Ihor Tochonov, Maryna Ivannikova, Andrianna Kostenko, Yulia Knyazyk, Olena Shaporenko, Oksana Yashkina. Correction: Tetiana Nebesna Design: Hanna Volkova In the preparation of the report on the rights of the child in Ukraine, the working group was supported by the team of facilitators: Oksana Moskalenko, Yulia Savelieva, Svitlana Tarabanova and Maria Yasenovska. This report can be downloaded from the Coalition «Child Rights in Ukraine» website www.childrights.in.ua Please, send all your questions concerning the report to crc.ngo.ukraine@gmail.com

This publication was made within the «CRC Implementation in Ukraine» project implemented by the All-Ukrainian NGO «Women’s Consortium of Ukraine» with the financial support of the Government of Sweden. The liability for the content of this document lies exclusively with its authors. The Government of Sweden may not share opinions expressed herein.

Preface

The «Young Voices» is a project, where children and young people, along with the Coalition «Child Rights in Ukraine» and other partners, explored the situation with the rights of the child in our country by interviewing other children. This is an important study, as it summarises children’s views on matters that directly affect them. The Convention on the Rights of the Child clearly states that children are entitled to express their views freely on all matters affecting their lives. Children must have a say about whether their rights are being properly observed, while the adults who make decisions affecting children’s lives – at school, at home, during leisure activities and in the community – should have access to information and understand of how children feel. The «Young Voices» is a useful tool for discussing various children and youth-related issues with policymakers and other stakeholders. The idea of this project (known as «Young Voices» in other countries) was born in Sweden in 2014 within the Save the Children Sweden1. The coalition shares the initiators’ expectations that the «Young Voices» should encourage establishment of the discussion platforms for politicians, the decision-makers, other adults, children and young people. We hope that such platforms of influence will be set up at all levels, promoting realisation of the right of children and young people to engage in all processes aimed at addressing issues that affect their lives. In Ukraine, the government, the Parliament, the President, oblast and local state administrations and councils bear responsibility for issues relating to children and youth. As Ukraine has ratified the Convention on the Rights of the Child, these are the institutions that have the duty to make change happen. Findings of the «Young Voices» confirm that there are still many issues that need to be addressed so that children feel safe and their rights are not violated. We hope that children’s views and opinions will be given due weight in planning of the forthcoming changes. Many thanks to all children and young people involved in the study! I would also like to acknowledge all teachers, headmasters, parents and everyone else who has contributed to this study. We are particularly grateful to the Ukrainian Marketing Association for sampling and conducting the study in 11 oblasts of Ukraine and in the city of Kyiv. And, of course, we highly appreciate the support from Save the Children International and SIDA (Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency) that enabled realisation of this idea in Ukraine. Svitlana Tarabanova, Expert of the Coalition «Child Rights in Ukraine»

Young Voices - Sweden 2014, https://resourcecentre.savethechildren.net/library/young-voices-sweden-2014

Content Introduction

• Summary

• Seriously speaking

• What is «Young Voices»?

• Article 12 of the Convention

on the Rights of the Child • How did we do it? (Methodology)

Section 1. Respect for the views of the child

Section 2. Right to feel well and safe

Section 3. Growing up under different

circumstances (ensuring equal opportunities) Section 4. School and education for everyone

Section 5. Knowledge about rights

Section 6. The future

Annex: The Survey Results

Summary

In the ÂŤYoung VoicesÂť project, 1,290 girls and boys aged 13 to 17 responded to questions about their rights. The survey results give the idea of the extent to which the rights of the child are observed in practice in Ukraine. They also confirm that many children in our country want to be listened to and to be taken seriously in terms of their rights.

1290

Aged from 13 to 17

5 Children want more opportunities to express their views on matters that affect their lives. Some respondents say that the educational system is ineffective, while tools for making them familiar with childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s rights are simply non-existent. Children are worried about schooling and experience stress over schoolwork; they are exposed to violence or bullying, while lacking the adult support. They do not know where to seek help, and if they do, this help is often inadequate.

82% 19% 6% 9% 33% 65%

67%

feel that the government has to listen to childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s views of children over the previous year felt bullied or harassed

65%

62%

experienced violence from adults, and experienced violence from other children donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t feel safe on public transport in the evenings

note that Ukraine needs to do more to stop bullying/ online bullying (cyberbullying)

have, during the previous year, felt stressed concerning their schoolwork

32%

want to have more influence and opportunities to give views on issues that concern them and other children

43%

want to give their views and have more influence on educational processes in schools

10% 62%

43%

never or almost never feel safe at school breaks

want to have more opportunities to influence on educational processes in their respective schools and give their views in this regard have been worried about not being able to manage school

31% 40% 95% 72%

want to express their views and influence on the organisation of public transport

want to give their views and influence leisure activities at places where they live

want to give their views and have more influence on processes linked to ensuring equal rights of girls and boys have seen someone else punched or hit over the course of the year believe that Ukraine needs to do more to help children who are living in poverty

are optimistic about their future in the country

Seriously speaking Findings of the study showed that children in Ukraine do see the problem in the fact that their views are not given due weight in decision-making processes. Quite often young citizens feel that adults make their own decisions concerning children. Even when adults organise events involving children, for example, set up student self-governments in schools, children do not feel that attitudes towards them have changed, or there are real mechanisms in place for expressing their views. In practice, these bodies work on tasks set by adults, and these are commonly linked to leisure activities of children. Decisions in other spheres of school life, such as educational process, studentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s workload, assessment of creative abilities in athletics or art, quality and availability of meals in schools, opportunities to get to school from remote city districts or from other villages, are made exclusively by adults.

entary

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There are no real opportunities to express one’s opinion – if we talk about the youth council or student government, allegedly governed by children. I’ve seen it from very close. Children can articulate only something that adults or leaders need. All thoughts and ideas that students want to convey travel such a long bureaucratic path that they are lost along the way. Initially you need to formalise a project in a specific way, then it has to be approved by one leader, then the second one, the third… In practice, everything ends with the first.

Often children complained about adults ignoring their views, while referring to own experience: «We’ve been around for a while, but what do you know if you haven’t seen anything in this life yet?” Sometimes children feel that when making decisions that affect children’s lives, adults forget about them altogether, as if they’ve never been children themselves. The study results indicate that children can speak seriously about their rights and get involved

Although some children shared positive examples,

in changes. We, adults, should not only listen

but these success stories are rather an exception

to children’s views, but also encourage their

to the general practice.

participation in making decisions that affect their

In addition, children note that even in difficult situation, for example, when being exposed violence or harassment, they either do not know who can help them, or adults are reluctant to take any action. In most cases children are told to change school, as if the transfer will resolve the child’s problem, and manifestations of bulling will dissolve into thin air!

entary

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My family tells me not to express my dissatisfaction in school, and then everything will be fine. Some «diplomacy», right? […] But I don’t think it is right.

lives. The decision-makers must observe standards and remain committed to their obligations under the Convention on the Rights of the Child. entary

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I met other kids and learned that in some schools they are not allowed to express themselves. And it’s not just about dyeing one’s hair, but about crushing all the initiatives in the bud. Adults must support children, but it looks like they oppress them.

What is «Young Voices»? a The ide

How can this report be used? The study findings are summarised in 6 sections:

«Young Voices» is an effective tool for discussing various children and

• Respect for the views of the child;

youth-related issues with policymakers and other stakeholders.

• Right to feel well and safe;

The idea of this project first emerged in Sweden. The organisation Save the Children urged all those who make decisions concerning children to involve young people in decisions that affect their lives. Relevant tool was shared with children and non-governmental organisations in other countries. This is how the Coalition «Child Rights in Ukraine» and the action group of children decided to conduct a pilot study, and did so in 2015.

• Growing up under different circumstances (ensuring equal opportunities); • School and education for everyone; • Knowledge about rights; • The future. Each section includes recommendations of children and young people participating in the study.

During 2016–2017 the Coalition, in collaboration with children and

Certain issues are awarded more space than others but the results of all

with support of the Ukrainian Marketing Association conducted the

questions, such as age- and gender-specific differences, can be found

nationwide survey in 11 regions of Ukraine.

in Annex.

«Young Voices» is a tool for ensuring the fullest possible participation of children in monitoring and advocating the rights of the child. Children study rights, conduct research, elaborate recommendations based on their findings, and present them to adults, who have an impact on the situation with children’s rights in the country. This is done with the expert backing of adults. At the same time, the project is flexible, responding to the needs of children involved and recognising their ideas for further steps.

ntion e v n o C e h t f o Article 12 hild C e h t f o s t h ig R on the

Article 12 1. States Parties shall assure to the child who is capable of forming his or her own views the right to express those views freely in all matters affecting the child, the views of the child being given due weight in accordance with the age and maturity of the child.

In its General Comment No. 12 «The right of the child to be heard», the UN

The survey findings confirm children’s readiness to seriously speak about

Committee on the Rights of the Child further elaborates standards of observing this

their rights, but adults’ approach to developing the government policy of

right in practice.

taking into account the child’s views remains formal.

«The right of all children to be heard and taken seriously constitutes one of the

Ukraine has to review its policy and ensure realisation of the right of the

fundamental values of the Convention. The Committee has identified Article

child to be heard, specifically based on standards set forth in the General

12 as one of the four general principles of the Convention, the others being the

Comment No. 12, namely through training of adults. Indeed, the child’s

right to non-discrimination, the right to life and development, and the primary

true participation in the processes affecting his or her life will depend on

consideration of the child’s best interests, which highlights the fact that this article

the adults’ support.

establishes not only a right in itself, but also be considered in the interpretation and implementation of all other rights» (General Comment, Section 1, para. 2).2

Also the General Comment No. 12 stipulates that adults must produce child-friendly information so children can understand it. Adults must listen

Also the UN Committee on the Rights of the Child, in its Concluding observations

to, respect and take into account children’s opinions in all decisions

for Ukraine (2011) notes that children’s participation in decision-making processes

concerning them. The bottom line is to regard children’s participation as

remains the exception rather than the rule, and recommends to:

a process rather than a single event. Adults should not adopt a symbolic

• Review the Education Act to ensure that the right of children to be heard and

approach to Article 12 such as by organising drawing competitions,

express themselves is explicitly stipulated herein and that it provides for the

children’s choirs or tree planting.

establishment of students’ councils.

Listening properly to children means that they have their say in all matters

• Promote, facilitate and implement the principle of respect for the right of children to be heard within the family, in schools and in the community. • Ensure children’s participation in all matters affecting them.

affecting them. For example, children being involved in and influencing major decisions such as prioritisation, budget and planning in the community or the school. Children should receive information about the issues under discussion, and participation should be voluntary.

General Comment No. 12 (2009): The Right of the Child to Be Heard: : http://www.ohchr.org/ru/HRBodies/Pages/TBGeneralComments.aspx

10 It is also important to ask children what they want to discuss and how they would

How did we do it? (Methodology)

like to do it. They should also have a

The questionnaire for children was the

sample of 1,000 is 3.1%). The criteria for

feedback â&#x20AC;&#x201C; when a decision is made,

main research tool. It was developed

ensuring representativeness included the

they have to know about it, how their

by the Save the Children Sweden and

ratio of schoolboys and schoolgirls in the

opinions have been considered, and

adapted to the Ukrainian situation by the

regions, the proportional representation

what the consequences are. And only if

Coalition ÂŤChild Rights in UkraineÂť experts.

of urban and rural schools, as well as

all requirements of the General Comment

Specifically, it included some questions

gender aspect.

No. 12 were observed, we can talk about

related to a child being an internally

true participation of children in decisions

displaced person.

regarding matters affecting them.

Almost 30 children participated in the

Thus, representative data was obtained enabling the survey to speak on behalf of

study as experts at various stages. They helped the Coalition to adapt the toolkit, to better understand the survey results,

all children in Ukraine. The study was carried out during the 2016/2017 academic year.

and to prepare recommendations based

Having received preliminary data, in

on findings. 15 children expressed their

August 2017 we convened a meeting

willingness to survey their classmates and

with children involved in the project to

interviewed 293 students aged 13 to 17

discuss their understanding of the overall

years.

picture based on answers, to collect their

Also, to collect the data, the Coalition contracted

the

survey

company

that interviewed 1,000 children aged 14 to 16 years in different regions of Ukraine (according to calculations, the child population of this age group in Ukraine is 274,303 persons; the minimum representative sample is 384 persons, therefore, the margin of error for the

statements on the topics under review, and to formulate preliminary conclusions. At the end of 2017, the project experts once again met the children to jointly develop

recommendations.

recommendations,

key

figures

Said and

relevant findings are presented in this report. The complete survey data can be found in Annex .

1â&#x20AC;ş

Respect for the views of the child

82% of children believe it is important that the government and local authorities listened to what children think about different things

entary

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Children talk about their problems, but no one hears them. Children are dissatisfied with the learning process, but no one listens to them. If they have any problems, they try not to mention them because they already know from experience: nothing will change.

Many children express the importance of decision-

During the previous year, have you been able to give your views about any issue important to you?

17%

53%

Don’t know

yes

makers listening to them. Two out of three want more influence and opportunities to affect issues that concern them. entary

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If «Yes», then where have you been able to give your views about any issue important to you?

68% 58% 43%

30% no

I had a history of student self-governance. Children are only allowed to tell something that adults or leaders want.

3% EXPERT COMMENTARY

Children feel that they have most influence at

Most children report lacking opportunities

school, and it is primarily there that they would

to communicate their views to decision-

like to expand their influence. Local authorities is

makers. This confirms the fact that stereotypes

the place where children feel they have the least

concerning children and their views still exist

chances to be heard.

in the 21st century Ukraine. The respondents

entary

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If I want to express my opinion on this or that issue, adults tell me to stay away, because there enough «know-alls» other than me.

frequently

indicate

that

when

adopting

laws about children, adults never ask for their opinion. The same thing happens at the community level. And the children are afraid to express their opinions being afraid of ridicule, pressure or punishment by adults.

In school At home

In my leisure time / out-of-school activities (hobby group, sports club, camp) In my local government

Other places

How great do you think your opportunities are to present your views and opinions to the decisionmakers in your settlement / community?

25% 35% 16% 24%

Many opportunities

Few opportunities No opportunities

Difficult to answer

65% of children want to have more influence and opportunities to give their views on issues that concern them and other children Also, children would like to give views and have more influence:

62% 43% 32% 31% 19%

– on educational processes in schools – on leisure activities at places where they live – on the organisation of public transport

– on processes linked to ensuring equal rights of girls and boys – on decisions to stop racism and reduce persecutions on ethnic grounds

RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE «YOUNG VOICES» MONITORS To give due weight to children’s opinions in matters related to protection of their interests. For this purpose, to provide them with access to clear and child-friendly information, and to offer opportunities to express their views, in particular, to take such measures: 1. To upgrade school websites. The website should be properly maintained and regularly updated, offering a section for anonymous comments, proposals and complaints that must be processed. Instead of advertising school achievements, the website should be designed for students and other participants of the learning process. It should have a space for reporting and discussing relevant student and teacher issues. While granting the administrator rights to children, the website should ensure the anonymity and security of users. It is also necessary to introduce more online platforms for children to speak up, share and discuss different opinions. 2. To win media support, which should promote children’s initiatives, foster the dissemination of information about the rights of the child, and be sensitive to the rights and interests of children in news coverage. 3. To inform children about their right to participation: to conduct information campaigns for children, e.g. «Respect for the Child’s Views» (with the local level measures); to engage children in student governments, youth and children’s councils; to inform about opportunities to participate in discussions on all matters concerning the child, including online, peer and expert (adult) support. 4. To inform adults, particularly teachers, about the right of children to freely express their views on all matters affecting their lives: to organise adult learning activities on the rights of the child and

child empowerment; to hold educational events for mixed (adults and children) groups and/or school teams; to establish a dialogue between adults and children at the school or community level in a safe environment. To create favourable conditions for adults and children to collaborate. 5. To introduce different forms of representation of the child’s interests: local and school ombudsperson (both children and adults), and the like. 6. To put mechanisms in place for taking into account children’s views in the decision-making process, such as efficient youth and children’s councils at the local and national levels. To conduct surveys among children on various matters that are important for them, including online. 7. To ensure effective functioning of student governments, which should raise and address the most critical issues for school and students, protect the rights of schoolboys and schoolgirls, represent interests of all students, and offer platforms for everyone to express his or her opinion. To facilitate experience sharing and coordination with student governments in other schools to be able to discuss common problems at the regional and national levels. Apart from organising celebrations and school parties, or even duplicating the functions of the school administration, these bodies of student self-governance should represent interests of all schoolboys and schoolgirls.

The right 2› to feel well and safe

2.1›

Bullying and harassment entary

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In the course of the previous year, almost each fifth child was exposed to bullying

When children witness violence or some kind of harassment in the classroom, they simply keep silence. They don’t go to teachers or psychologists because they do not trust them and consider it useless, or simply fear that they might be the next victim. I’ve seen that. Children silently watch how somebody gives a hard time to someone else. They think: «I’m not the one who suffers, so it’s OK».

and/or harassment. One of the main needs of every child is to feel well and safe – whether he or she is at home or at school, has parents or lost them due to certain circumstances, differs from others or not, is an excellent student with leadership qualities or gets average marks and has no

The peculiarities of public attitudes towards bullying and harassment in the children’s environment, indifference and non-recognition of this problem have disastrous consequences: during the past year, 19% of children (almost every fifth child) were subject to harassment, with 5% being exposed to bullying on multiple occasions. During the previous year, have you felt that you are bullied or harassed?

significant ambitions, actively participates in the class or community life or prefers quietness and privacy.

Many times

14% Sometimes

81% Not at all

15 If you have felt bullied or harassed, was this due toâ&#x20AC;Ś

47% 21% 18% 16%

IT SHOULD BE NOTED THAT

More than 10% of children are aware that reasons for bullying or harassment have nothing to do with their differences, and indicated that in their answers.

Appearance Other

Family is badly off

38%

21%

think the opposite

of children believe that teachers do nothing to stop bullying

Age

12% Faith/religion

9% 6% 5% 4%

Gender

Parents from another country

Internally displaced family

that v

silenc

ictims

e, bec

they d

onâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t tr

keep

ause

ust ults an d are not su re wh ether they w ill be o ffered adeq uate s u pport and p rotect ion. the ad

CHILD REN BELIEV E

Online bullying (cyberbullying) 65%

Disability

of children believe that Ukraine needs to do more to stop online bullying (cyberbullying)

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It is necessary to work hard to put an end to cyberbullying, because in many cases this leads to suicides and bodily injuries.

22%

reported receiving insulting online messages from other children during the previous year

also received such messages via the mobile phone

2.2›

Unsafe places

Every tenth child never or almost never feels safe at school breaks

One in three children don’t feel safe on public transport in the evenings

Every third child feels unsafe on public transport in the evenings. The girls are 1.5 times more

Places / locations where children don’t feel safe At home

3% 3% 2%

 Boys

In the classroom

4% 4% 4%

 Girls

УIn the place of out-of5% school activity (youth club, 5% 4% centre, hobby group) In the area where a child lives (daytime)

6% 5% 5%

In the centre of the settlement (daytime)

6% 6% 7%

At school

7% 6% 5%

When online

7% 7% 8%

On the way to or from school

9% 8% 8%

likely to report such danger than boys. Alert buttons in many types of public transport are located too high, so children are at increased risk of missing their stops. Also children report that the problem of sexual harassment in public transport remains relevant, although they have no information about how to act in such dangerous situations.

entary

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The call button in public transport is usually too high, so children often just cannot reach it

 All

At school breaks

10% 10% 11%

On the bus, trolleybus, share taxi, etc. (daytime)

15% 19% 22%

In the area where a child lives (evening)

19% 22% 24%

In the centre of the settlement (evening)

23% 27% 30%

26% On the bus, trolleybus, share taxi, etc. (evening) 33% 39%

entary

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For some reason, every time when there is some drunkard or old man sitting beside you in the bus, he wants to touch you. At first, you knees, then higher…

entary

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I have changed several schools already. In different places things go differently for me, but the problems seem to be the same. I learned more about children’s safety, specifically about places where they don’t feel safe – at home, at school, on their way to and from school. Many suffer from almost permanent distress and fear

IT SHOULD BE NOTED THAT The child safety depends on the atmosphere in the community and in school. While processing the data, we notices significant discrepancies in defining unsafe places such as school, public transport and the centre of the settlement where children live. According to monitoring results, about 20% of boys reported feeling unsafe on

2.3› Violence 40% 6% 9% 7%

of children have seen someone else punched or hit over the course of the year experienced violence from adults, and experienced violence from other children of children reported that during the previous year adults tried to contact them and wanted to talk about unpleasant things. Such situations are more widespread among girls (9%) than boys (5%).

their way home from school (compared to 13% of girls), while 12% of children do not feel safe at school, and 11% - in the classroom. Such a

EXPERT COMMENTARY

discrepancy was found in the sociological

These figures may suggest low or insufficiently clear

survey, where, depending on the region, the

understanding of what should be considered violence,

percentage of children who don’t feel safe on

where one can go in cases of violence, and silence

the way from school ranges from 3% to 25%.

due to universal distrust after sustaining injury. Also,

Therefore, it would be expedient to conduct an

given peculiarities of parenting, boys often suffer from

additional study in each school and community

domestic violence; in such cases they either don’t know

to determine how securely children feel in this

where to go, or don’t want to report it due to widespread

specific school or community.

stereotypes («Boys don’t cry»).

When I was in the primary school, our teacher used to beat children – from the 1st to the 4th grade. She gave a slap or pulled one’s ears. And she always got away with that entary

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2.4›

Home and family

There’s this old saying «My home is my castle», but the survey results indicate that 3% of children

During the previous year, have you been worried about any of the following?  Boys

That your family will be evicted

3% 2% 1%

That your parents will kick you out so you cannot live at home any more

3% 3% 2%

 Girls

Be harassed because of the internally displaced status

3% 3% 3%

That you will not be able to decide who you will be together with (mom or dad following divorce)

3% 3% 3%

Be subjected to racism

3% 4% 4%

That you will harm yourself

5% 6% 7%

Experience violence from adults

5% 6% 7%

That you will not receive enough help at school

4% 6% 9%

Experience violence from other children

8% 9% 10%

Be bullied / harassed

8% 11% 14%

That your family will not have enough money for their needs

16% 17% 1%

Not to be able to manage school

35% 43% 51%

don’t feel safe at home; also during the year 3% were worried about being thrown out of their homes.

2% 3%

of children worried that they and their families could be evicted were nervous because of their parents’ divorce or separation

2.5› Feeling bad

63% of surveyed children reported feeling sad or down for longer periods of time. The main reasons for that included misunderstanding by adults, bullying and harassment, stress due to imbalanced curricula and additional education. Children also tend to worry about their schooling and the future, while adults often simply ignore these feelings, offering no adequate support to children.

 All

19 During the previous year, have you felt sad or down for a longer period of time?

 Not at all  Sometimes  Many times

37% 17%

16% 47%

During the previous year, have you ever felt stressed over schoolwork?

33% All

All

50% 46%

13%

2.6›

Support and help

During working meetings and interviews, it became apparent that the issue of support for children was relevant, important and painful at the same time. Children emphasise that they need support and help from adults. They admit lacking parental support, especially in families where parents are particularly strict or indifferent. We were also saddened by the fact that despite the availability of social and psychological

41%

29%

18% 53%

EXPERT COMMENTARY

Boys

Girls

services in schools (a social pedagogue + psychologist), only 50% of children trust them.

The project data points at a certain degree

The respondents say that psychologists are

of tension and anxiety in the children’s

part of the school environment, and this very

environment. Perhaps this is linked to the

fact causes distrust. Children report seeing how

age-specific and mental peculiarities of

psychologists, having consulted students, often

children, or to overall stressful atmosphere

discuss a child with other teachers, even if the

in the country due to the armed conflict. It is

latter are unaware of the problem. They recalled

obvious that bullying also adds to stress felt

situations when after allegedly anonymous

by children.

surveys by school psychologists they often heard their statements from other teachers.

20 Also, due to poor mental health culture in Ukrainian society, confusing the terms «a psychologist» and «a psychiatrist» and the fear of being tagged as «a psycho» often leads to situations where not all adults (let alone children) seek assistance either at school and elsewhere. children do not know where 49% ofto surveyed go for psychological help if there are problems in the family,

47% if some friends are exposed to violence, 47% when they feel unfairly treated, 31% problems.

if they are suffering from psychological

Children who don’t know where to turn…

49% 47% 47% 31%

if there are problems in the family if they have been exposed to violence, threats or other crimes

if they feel violated or unfairly treated

if they are suffering from psychological problems

RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE «YOUNG VOICES» MONITORS 1. To set up school-based bullying prevention framework, specifically to increase awareness of children, parents and teachers about bullying as a phenomenon, and to inform them about how to counter and respond to it. These may include preventive conversations; role-playing games that help to develop algorithms for responding to bullying; nonviolent communication skills; discussions of cartoons, films and comics on adjacent topics; psychological assistance to victims and perpetrators of violence. Prevention of bullying can be included in the curriculum, e.g. in Fundamentals of Health and Safety course. Relevant work should be initiated as early as primary school. Children’s trust towards adults, as well as personal concern of the latter about cases of bullying and violence are important factors in this regard. 2. To explore specific root causes of danger for children and its manifestations on the streets, in transport and at school. Children need additional knowledge about safety mechanisms, such as driver’s alarm buttons and their location, situations when they can be used, and the like. Of particular importance is a system of visual warning signs and algorithms of action in situations of danger that children need to master. Children expect adults to be caring and ready to help in danger, including in situations of sexual harassment.

3. To intensify efforts of school psychologists aimed at countering violence against children, including domestic violence. It is necessary to work with child victims and perpetrators, providing them with psychological assistance, abandoning punitive methods in the work with aggressors, and introducing effective educational (correctional) programmes. To ensure the anonymity of work of a school psychologist (e.g. via anonymous e-mail box). To spread the culture and practice of seeking psychological assistance among children, parents and teachers. 4. Instead of trying to address the issue of violence solely by school’s efforts, it is expedient to involve services for children, the police and non-governmental organisations as well. To inform children about the protective mechanisms both in school and beyond; to improve the existing mechanisms and to develop the new ones. 5. Children need an adult whose opinion would be convincing for other adults, who they can trust, and who they can ask for help and protection. Such an important role can be accepted by a school psychologist, a headmaster, a teacher or one of school administrators. It is also possible to introduce new mechanisms such as a school ombudsman.

Growing up 3› under different circumstances (ensuring equal opportunities)

орить

Юна моніторка гов

In schools they collect money for excursions. This has nothing to do with equal opportunities, because when children cannot go somewhere with the class, it is humiliating. 21% of children could not afford such trips as they had no money.

EXPERT COMMENTARY Ukraine is one of those states where

equal

exists

only

papers. term

opportunity in

legislative

Moreover,

«equal of

life.

Obviously,

financial situation of different populations in our country are one of more important factors contributing to the lack of equal opportunities. are

with

particularly

of children believe that Ukraine needs to do more to help children who are living in poverty

disabilities vulnerable

to such inequality, as their access to school education is guaranteed to the «level

Costs on school and leisure time

22%

opportunity»

significant contrasts in the

Children

95%

the

goes beyond the material sphere

3.1› Poverty / Financial capacity Despite the fact that education in Ukraine is formally free, schools still employ “fundraising practices” to optimise a learning process or organise leisure activities. This creates unequal conditions for children. For example, 69% of

29% Children who had to refrain from a school activity (excursions, picnics, outdoor days, discos) during the previous year because of costs

respondents noted that during the previous year they have been told to bring money. In 77% of cases these funds were collected for excursions. At the same time, every fifth child admitted having situations during the past year when he or she could not join in school activities (excursions, trips, parties) due to lack of money. Such situations are somewhat more frequent among older children (one in four adolescents aged 16).

Children who had to refrain from a leisure (out-of-school) activity (hobby groups, sports clubs) during the previous year because of costs

69%

Children who have been told to bring money for school activities (excursions, trips, participation in contests or sports competitions) during the previous year

of ramps». Schools are yet to introduce a system of tutors and teacher assistants, although the law on inclusive education does exist.

THE MINISTRY

The practice of holding paid or partially paid activities

OF SOCIAL POLICY

contributes to differentiating children from families in

OF UKRAINE STATISTICS

difficult life circumstances. This is additional reason for children’s concerns. Specifically, 17% of respondents noted that during the previous year they have been worried about of the lack of money to meet their needs. Also, as noted above, 18% of children who felt bullied identified their families’ financial status as one of causes for bullying..

61%

The poverty rate among children aged 0-17 under the absolute criterion «income below the actual subsistence minimum» was 61% in 2016.

EXPERT COMMENTARY Virtually no work is carried out at the government level to address the issue of material inequality.

They

have

3.2â&#x20AC;ş Differences between boys and girls

The childhood of girls and boys differ in many aspects. For example, girls feel down more often than boys, experiencing psychological discomfort, anxiety or feel depressed for a longer period. Girls are also more exposed to sexual harassment and are more afraid of public transport.

some programmes to support

At the same time, girls are more likely than boys to seek opportunities for expressing their views and influencing decisions

socially

that affect their lives â&#x20AC;&#x201C; both in schools and at the local government.

disadvantaged

categories of citizens, but, as practice shows, they are largely ineffective. In addition, corruption and nepotism are extremely widespread in the country, creating significant

In the meantime, boys are more vulnerable to physical violence, which is confirmed by the fact that boys are much more likely to witness or suffer from beating.

10 questions that boys and girls answered differently Question

Girls, % of respondents

Boys, % of respondents

Proportion of children who worry about not being able to handle school

74 %

60 %

Proportion of students who felt stressed over grades during the previous year

72 %

63 %

Proportion of children who have felt sad or depressed for a longer period

71 %

54 %

strained financial situation is a

Proportion of children who have felt bullied or harassed during the previous year

21 %

17 %

remarkable indicator for that.

Proportion of children who don't feel safe on public transport during daytime

22 %

15%

Proportion of children who don't feel safe on public transport in the evening

39 %

26 %

Proportion of children who have seen someone hit or punched

36 %

44 %

Proportion of respondents who believe that it is important that the government and local authorities listened to what children say

87 %

77 %

Proportion of those who would like to give their views and have more influence on processes linked to ensuring equal rights of girls and boys

35 %

26 %

Proportion of children who would like to give their views on educational processes in schools and have more influence on decision-making

65 %

59 %

obstacles for realisation of equal opportunities. Limited opportunities from

families

for in

children difficult

life circumstances due to

RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE «YOUNG VOICES» MONITORS 1. To ensure effective and easy accessible government assistance for low-income families with children, and control of its targeted use on children. Material support for a family should not be something humiliating and discriminatory; instead, it should become a normal national practice. In addition to material assistance, relevant social and psychological support should be made available to families with children. 2. To launch the state fund for the minimum provision of excursions (or to include necessary funds in the school budget) or to use opportunities of free excursions for children (similar to tours organised by McDonald’s). Every school has to create conditions and make good use of the existing opportunities to eliminate inequality based on the families’ financial status. 3. To educate pedagogues to be tolerant and recognise individual needs of children. To introduce human and children’s rights education for children based on respect for human dignity and diversity. 4. To provide schools with high-quality textbooks and manuals, especially for foreign language classes and courses, taking into account the latest developments in this area and real educational needs. 5. To remove the course «Christian Ethics» from the curriculum of public schools for the purposes of preventing bullying and discrimination, and to introduce an optional course «Religion Studies».

School and 4› education for everyone Schools must play a compensatory role, thus making up for different conditions that the children may live in. Children who are not able to get help with homework at home should be supported in schools. Schools have the responsibility to ensure that children do not experience abusive behaviour, such as bullying or racism, and that children who are feeling bad get help. Schools must react, manage and respond in such situations. Schools are children’s workplace; they are entitled to a good working environment and to influence in school-related issues. One should remember that every child has an inalienable right to education. And above all, this is a right, not a duty, so schools and

6. To ensure a diverse range of state-funded special courses and allow children to choose classes in accordance with their interests and needs.

pedagogues alike should pursue the increasing motivation of children

7. To develop a system of free additional / extra classes in schools.

their worries about schoolwork.

to learn and exercise this right, which will, among other things, reduce

4.1›

Working environment and influence at school 62%

EXPERT COMMENTARY If most younger schoolchildren put on their uniforms and pack

I think that children are overloaded in schools. Many of them worry as knowledge does not come easy for them. And this overload deprives them of leisure time

of children would like to have more opportunities to influence on educational processes in their respective schools and give their views in this regard

the backpacks with pleasure, then older students tend to skip classes

without

good

reason

and argue about the ugliness and inefficiency of the Ukrainian school. An educational institution as a place, where the child spends

significant

periods

time outside the family, and designed as a «hub» for learning and

development,

transforms

into

gradually

monster,

associated with quarrels due to poor performance, complaints,

The school statute regulates activities of all participants in the educational process. This document contains information about the student government and lists approved school rules, including school uniforms. 70% of students are aware of the school statute, but only 42% read it. In addition, many children report that this document is not publicly available, and in order to read

fatigue.

other

words,

instead of promoting the right of children to education, it becomes a violator of this right.

At your school, are there any opportunities for you to present your opinion on, for example, school meals, breaks, schoolwork or other things concerning school?

14% 26% 37% 23%

it one has to contact the school administration. During

Very often Often

Sometimes

Never

the survey we learned that some children did not know the word «statute». At the same time, children point out that the school rules usually require familiarisation with the school statute.

Only 40% of children have the opportunity to voice their opinions on, for example, school meals, breaks, or other school-related issues, while 60%

financial extortions, harassment and

entary

Young monitor comm

insist that their opportunities in this context are I believe that children avoid expressing their opinions about school-related issues, being afraid of possible change of attitudes towards them entary

Young monitor comm

limited. Children admit that student governments in their schools exist as a «game of adults», because their functions mainly come down to organising and holding out-of-school (leisure) activities.

4.2›

Worry about schoolwork

67%

of children experienced stress because of schoolwork over the past year

The survey results show that children often

27 During the previous year, have you ever felt stressed over schoolwork?

 Not at all  Sometimes  Many times

17%

33%

experience stress and anxiety at school. Two out of three children experienced stress because of schoolwork during the previous year. One in four children worry that they will not manage to succeed in school. Stress and anxiety over grades

The need to pay for help with homework

Other form of reward

16%

43%

yes

Sometimes

50%

77% no

is more common among girls than boys.

of children have been worried about not being able to manage school

During the previous year, have you ever felt stressed over your grades?

34%

 Not at all  Sometimes  Many times

18%

Can you get help with homework from teachers at your school?

33%

21% 31% 8%

49%

Yes, always Often

Sometimes

Never Difficult to answer

EXPERT COMMENTARY These findings confirm both the vulnerability of children and the fact that students’ workload

4.3› Safe at school

in Ukrainian schools is quite significant, with

Many children describe bullying as a part of

imbalanced schoolwork and homework and

everyday life at school. Every tenth student

imperfect evaluation system. Presentations of

state that he or she doesn’t feel safe at break

most courses are dry and boring, which also

time. Moreover, 4% of children don’t feel safe in

affects the psychological state of students –

the classroom. 9% of boys feel unsafe on their

they might hate this class but still have to study,

way home from school.

as there are no alternatives.

According to children, such courses as «Christian

Also during discussions children gave examples

In some cases younger schoolchildren refuse

I think that at least half of all students have no idea about how to support children with disabilities in school. I have one classmate with disability. She is being treated nicely, and teachers help her. She can move around on her own, and we lead her by the hand

of physical violence by teachers.

Ethics»

contribute

exclusion

children

with different beliefs or religions, whereas the

to go to school, while older students simply skip

«fundraising»

classes without any good reason. Children’s

families in difficult financial situation. These factors

health deteriorates due to the pressure; kids develop harmful habits or join bad companies.

Do you feel that your school works to stop bullying?

In addition to mainstream schools, many students also get other types of education, e.g. in music, art, choreography and other schools, which also set homework of their own, increasing the workload and adding to overall stress. Grades cause anxiety because of their subjectivity (sometimes assessments depend on the teacher’s attitude towards the student). It is simply outrageous that Ukrainian schools continue

assessing

students’

Difficult to answer

38% yes

music, technology and the like. School-age children have virtually no time for rest and

isolate

students

from

also expose children to bullying. Do you think that your school does enough for children with disabilities?

44% Don’t know

21% no

performance

in purely creative subjects, such as drawing,

leisure.

41%

practices

It seems like neither teachers nor classmates accept children with disabilities. [...] There are three disabled kids in our school. They study at home, because there are no teachers for them… entary

Young monitor comm

30% yes

26% no

EXPERT COMMENTARY Ukrainian students argue that owing to outdated and poorly reformed system current learning environment in schools is ineffective and child-unfriendly. One can observe violence and bullying, as there are no systems in place to prevent these phenomena; teachers have their «pets», and only leaders and excellent students receive support and opportunities to participate in important school events.

RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE «YOUNG VOICES» MONITORS 1. it is necessary for schools and pedagogues to increase children’s motivation to learn and exercise their right to education, which, in turn, will reduce their worries about schoolwork. 2. To place the text of the school statute in plain view, to post it on the school’s website, and to organise a campaign to make every participant of the educational process familiar with it. To develop and produce gradebook inserts with the school statute in age-appropriate language. 3. To introduce annual discussions of the school statute, the mechanisms for protecting the rights of the child, and the procedures for incorporating students’ views and opinions into the statute; to discuss, if necessary, necessary changes to the statute and to adopt them with students during class hours. 4. To ensure observance of school rules both by students and by teachers. School rules and procedures have to take into account children’s needs, including the need to eat during a break. 5. To foster development of student governments and strengthen its influence on the school life starting from the primary school.

6. To conduct trainings and school exchanges on various topics that would be of interest for students, including those dedicated to children’s participation in the life of their schools, communities and society, as well as on organisation of student governments.

11. To update the assessment system (especially concerning creative subjects). To take into account children’s individuals skills and abilities in the assessment process.

7. To provide schools with technical means and equipment for children with disabilities.

13. To introduce “free” learning environment similar to the Finnish educational system that allows students to have a snack or visit a toilet during the class hours among other things.

8. To train professional teacher assistants and tutors with their salaries and emoluments paid from the budget. 9. To involve volunteers for conducting optional courses, helping with homework and tutoring and if necessary – to involve them as assistant teachers and tutors. 10. To give due weight to students’ opinions about the workload, the content of school curriculum and the like by means of regular surveys. To develop well-balanced system of schoolwork and homework; to reduce the amount of homework for senior students; to improve the system of elective courses. To offer interesting and useful (practical) elective and optional study courses.

12. To ensure adequate psychological support, especially for graduate students.

14. To raise pedagogues’ salaries in order to encourage new specialists and motivate teachers to work better. It is important to make this profession prestigious and to seek elimination of gender-based discrimination.

Knowledge 5â&#x20AC;ş about rights

entary

Young monitor comm

58% have never read the statute of their respective schools, even though 30% know about its existence. However, most school statutes are limited to such formalities as a school dress code

EXPERT COMMENTARY Ukrainian schools have special educational hours and weeks of law; they organise and hold a variety of themed events on human and children’s rights. However, over the past decade children’s advocates have repeatedly insisted that all these measures are inefficient as adults working with children have no systemic knowledge of the rights of the child, let alone the absence of consistent human rights policy. The «Young Voices» study further confirmed nonexistence of any system of child rights education in Ukraine. When adults try to tell children about rights, this usually results in a substitution of notions, and children develop misconceptions, where the rights are replaced with duties. If a child has no idea about rights, or mixes up automatically memorised concepts with incomprehensible phrases, then how can this child protect his or her rights? Children have fragmented, nonsystematic knowledge of international and national remedies; they confuse the Convention on the Rights of the Child with the national Constitution, and the like. In addition, the survey

Knowledge about the Convention on the Rights of the Child

79% 58%

Proportion of children who have heard about the Convention Proportion of children who have received information about the Convention in school in the previous year

entary

Young monitor comm

The primary school subject called «Me and Ukraine» was pure formality. The only thing I remember is this nice flower on the blackboard, where we wrote phrases like «the right to leisure time» or «the right to medical assistance». And I really liked the word combination «the rights of the child». This is basically all that I remember about rights

entary

Young monitor comm

When I surveyed other students, many of them pointed at the «mistake» in the questionnaire, as it read «Convention» instead of the «Constitution». In other words, children are not aware of this international document – the Convention on the Rights of the Child – and confuse it with the Constitution – the Fundamental Law of the state entary

Young monitor comm

About one-third of surveyed children knew nothing about the rights of the child and about the existence of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child. There is this school course called «Law Science». It is very formal. They mention some laws, and that’s it. Not a word about international treaties, and just a few brief references to the Constitution of Ukraine

Чи розповідали тобі у навчальному закладі впродовж останнього року про права дитини?

Не знаю

73% yes

19% no

demonstrated that children are simply unaware about the school statute as a document that regulates and protects their rights at school. If they do know about its existence, they view it as incomprehensible and formal «adult» document.

RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE «YOUNG VOICES» MONITORS 1. To introduce a dedicated school subject that will make children familiar with human and children’s rights.

2. To develop simple, interesting and child-friendly formats to make children familiar with human and children’s rights.

6› The Future 72%

of interviewed children are positive about their future

entary

Young monitor comm

In my opinion, salaries in Ukraine are too low, and there’s shortage of jobs. Many graduates – economists, lawyers and others – face the fact that the market is crowded with such specialists. As a result, their work loses value. Even though we have excellent specialists, they cannot realise themselves

entary

Young monitor comm

I feel that I will have more chances to master a profession, get a residence permit and earn more money abroad. But this is bad for the state, because today, as in 1930’s, we see a «brain drain». There are many young specialists in Ukraine who cannot find a job here, and therefore they migrate to other countries and settle there. I think that young professionals need favourable conditions to develop in our country

72%

of surveyed children are quite optimistic about their future,

24%

however 24% of them found it difficult to

with 4% demonstrating clearly negative

answer this question,

attitudes towards their future prospects.

This confidence of Ukrainian children in the future is partially based on support via their parents’ connections or money. During the survey, part of the children reported that their education will be properly financed, or they will otherwise get a job, because their parents owned business or made necessary arrangements with friends. Although

most

children

are

optimistic,

quite

saddening is the fact than many of them don’t see their future in Ukraine. In addition, 46% of the respondents are not sure about being able to find a job after leaving school, including 7% of those who believe that it’s simply impossible.

How do you regard your future? Girls

Boys

14 years

16 years

Very positively

32 %

30 %

33 %

29 %

Positively

43 %

38 %

43 %

39 %

Negatively

Very negatively

Difficult to answer

21 %

28 %

21 %

28 %

Do you think you will be able to get a job in Ukraine when you leave school?

39% 39% 7% 15%

Yes Maybe

Don’t know

RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE «YOUNG VOICES» MONITORS 1. To hold career guidance events, including practical training at the factory, and the like. To support establishment of local ODAW (One Day At Work) units. 2. To formulate the list of relevant occupations; to inform children about them in popular form involving media.

â&#x20AC;ş ANNEX

THE SURVEY RESULTS Results are reported in the order the questions were arranged in the questionnaire

34 Question 1. Are you: Girl

51 %

Boy

49 %

Question 2. How old are you? 14 years

48 %

16 years

52 %

Question 3. Have you heard about the Convention on the Rights of the Child? Girls

Boys

14 years

16 years

Total

Yes

79 %

78 %

81 %

77 %

79 %

13 %

14 %

13 %

14 %

13 %

Don't know

100 %

Total

Question 4. During the previous year, has the Convention on the Rights of the Child been presented at your school? Girls

Boys

14 years

16 years

Total

Yes

60 %

55 %

66 %

50 %

58 %

30 %

33 %

28 %

35 %

31 %

Don't know

10 %

12 %

15 %

11 %

Total

100 %

Question 5. During the previous year, have the rights of the child been presented at your school? Girls

Boys

14 years

16 years

Total

Yes

76 %

69 %

81 %

65 %

73 %

17 %

22 %

15 %

24 %

19 %

Don't know

11 %

100 %

Total

35 Question 6. Do you think it is important that the government and local authorities listen to what children think about different things?

Question 9. Where have you been able to give your views about any issue important to you?3

Girls

Boys

14 years

16 years

Total

Yes

87 %

77 %

83 %

82 %

Don't know

10 %

15 %

12 %

Total

100 %

Question 7. How great do you think your opportunities are to present your views and opinions to the decision-makers in your settlement / community? Girls

Boys

14 years

16 years

Total

Many opportunities

23 %

28 %

27 %

23 %

25 %

Few opportunities

36 %

35 %

33 %

38 %

35 %

Boys

14 years

16 years

Total

In school

66 %

69 %

70 %

65 %

68 %

In my leisure time / out-of-school activities (hobby group, sports club, camp)

39 %

47 %

38 %

43 %

In my local government

10 %

12 %

At home

61 %

55 %

60 %

56 %

58 %

Other places

Question 10. Have you been able to freely express your views in school without fear of possible harassment? Girls

Boys

14 years

16 years

Total

Yes

54 %

56 %

55 %

No opportunities

14 %

17 %

13 %

18 %

16 %

12 %

11 %

10 %

Difficult to answer

27 %

20 %

27 %

21 %

24 %

Not always

27 %

18 %

22 %

Total

100 %

Difficult to answer

11 %

14 %

12 %

13 %

Total

100 %

Question 8. During the previous year, have you been able to give your views about any issue important to you?

Girls

Boys

14 years

16 years

Total

Yes

55 %

51 %

58 %

47 %

53 %

28 %

32 %

25 %

35 %

30 %

Don't know

17 %

18 %

17 %

Total

100 %

Only those who answered â&#x20AC;&#x153;Yesâ&#x20AC;? to Question 8 have answered 9

Question 11. Would you like more influence, power and opportunities to affect / give your views on issues that concern you and other children? Girls

Boys

14 years

16 years

Total

Yes

67 %

63 %

64 %

66 %

65 %

10 %

13 %

11 %

12 %

Don't know

23 %

24 %

25 %

22 %

23 %

Total

100 %

36 Question 12. Which areas would you like to influence / give your views on?4

Your education and school

Girls

Boys

14 years

16 years

Total

65 %

59 %

63 %

61 %

62 %

Leisure activities for children where you live

44 %

42 %

39 %

46 %

43 %

Public transport

33 %

31 %

29 %

35 %

32 %

Racism / persecutions on ethnic grounds

19 %

20 %

19 %

Equal rights for girls and boys

35 %

26 %

35 %

26 %

31 %

Other

Question 13. Ukraine needs to do more to stop bullying / online bullying (cyberbullying) Girls

Boys

14 years

16 years

Total

Important

71%

60 %

68 %

63 %

65 %

Not important

17 %

31 %

21 %

26 %

24 %

Don't know

12 %

11 %

Total

100 %

Question 15. Ukraine needs to do more to help children who self-harm Girls

Boys

14 years

16 years

Total

Important

87 %

81 %

88 %

80 %

84 %

Not important

11 %

Don't know

100 %

Total

Question 16. Ukraine needs to do more to stop racism / persecutions on ethnic grounds Girls

Boys

14 years

16 years

Total

Important

82 %

78 %

80 %

Not important

14 %

13 %

11 %

Don't know

10 %

11 %

Total

100 %

Question 17. Ukraine needs to do more to help internally displaced children Girls

Boys

14 years

16 years

Total

Important

77 %

76 %

77 %

Not important

10 %

Don't know

16 %

13 %

15 %

14 %

15 %

Total

100 %

Question 14. Ukraine needs to do more to ensure best interests of a child Girls

Boys

14 years

16 years

Total

Important

94 %

92 %

95 %

92 %

93 %

Not important

Don't know

100 %

Total 4

Only those who answered â&#x20AC;&#x153;Yesâ&#x20AC;? to Question 11 have answered 12

37 Question 18. Ukraine needs to do more to help children who are living in poverty Girls

Boys

14 years

16 years

Total

Important

96 %

94 %

96 %

95 %

Not important

Don't know

100 %

Total

Question 19. Ukraine needs to do more to improve the situation for children with disabilities Girls

Boys

14 years

16 years

Total

Important

97 %

95 %

97 %

96 %

Not important

Don't know

100 %

Total

Question 20. Ukraine needs to do more to ensure there is a government official for the protection of the rights of the child (Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Ombudsperson) in your settlement Girls

Boys

14 years

16 years

Total

Important

74 %

71 %

73 %

72 %

Not important

11 %

13 %

12 %

11%

12 %

Don't know

15 %

16 %

15 %

17 %

16 %

Total

100 %

Question 22. Do you have access to Internet in your home? Girls

Boys

14 years

16 years

Total

Yes

94 %

91 %

92 %

Sometimes

100 %

Total

Question 23. Do you have your own room at home? Girls

Boys

14 years

16 years

Total

Yes

84 %

85 %

83 %

16 %

15 %

17 %

16 %

Total

100 %

Question 24. Do you have your own mobile phone? Girls

Boys

14 years

16 years

Total

Yes

99 %

97 %

98 %

100 %

Total

Question 25. During the previous year, has a teacher asked you to bring in money to pay for an excursion, outdoor day, contests or sports competitions?

Question 21. Do you have access to a computer in your home?

Girls

Boys

14 years

16 years

Total

Girls

Boys

14 years

16 years

Total

Yes

73 %

64 %

72 %

66 %

69 %

Yes

92 %

90 %

91 %

90 %

91 %

21 %

29 %

21 %

28 %

25 %

Sometimes

Difficult to answer

100 %

Total

38 Question 28. Have you, during the previous year, not been able to join in some out-of-school activity (attending hobby clubs, sports sections, competitions) because you could not afford, for example, membership fees, training kit, uniform or something else that was needed?

Question 26. What was this money for?5 Girls

Boys

14 years

16 years

Total

Excursions

78 %

76 %

78 %

76 %

77 %

School trips

25 %

28 %

26 %

27 %

26 %

Food/snack during trip or excursion

26 %

25 %

26 %

25 %

26 %

Disco / celebrations of some events

31 %

30 %

36 %

25 %

31 %

Competitions, school Olympics

Charity

Other

14 %

Question 27. Have you, during the previous year, not been able to join in an activity at school because it has cost money? міг/не могла взяти участь у шкільному заході через відсутність грошей? Boys

14 years

16 years

Total

Yes

30 %

28 %

25 %

34 %

29 %

60 %

61 %

63 %

58 %

61 %

Difficult to answer

10 %

11 %

12 %

10 %

Total

100 %

Boys

14 years

16 years

Total

Yes

21 %

23 %

20 %

24 %

22 %

79 %

77 %

80 %

76 %

78 %

Total

100 %

Question 29. Can you get help with homework from teachers at your school?

Other options of money use: Tickets to various events (show, theatre, cinema, sports competition) School needs (security, repairs, school fund) Organisation of class events or outdoor days Procurement of textbooks, notebooks and the like

Girls

Boys

14 years

16 years

Total

Yes

34 %

35 %

36 %

32 %

34 %

Often

21 %

20 %

21 %

Sometimes

32 %

30 %

31 %

Never

10 %

Difficult to answer

100 %

Girls

Boys

14 years

16 years

Total

Yes

72 %

82 %

75 %

77 %

Sometimes

21 %

11 %

17 %

16 %

Other form of reward

100 %

Total

Question 30. If this help paid?6

Total

Questions 26 and 27 only for those who answered “Yes” to Question 25

Excluding those who answered “Never” to Question 29

39 Question 34. Do you know that your school has a statute?

Question 31. Do you currently get help with your homework at home?

Girls

Boys

14 years

16 years

Total

Yes

74 %

66 %

70 %

19 %

26 %

34 %

30 %

14 %

13 %

Total

100 %

29 %

27 %

30 %

29 %

100 %

Girls

Boys

14 years

16 years

Total

Yes, a lot

33 %

30 %

36 %

28 %

32 %

Yes, a little

19 %

19%

Almost never

12 %

14 %

12 %

Never

Don't need such help

28 %

Total

100 %

Question 32. Do you get the help from a teacher you need to manage your tasks at your school? Girls

Boys

14 years

16 years

Total

Yes, always

19 %

23 %

22 %

20 %

21 %

Often

25 %

23 %

25 %

23 %

24 %

Sometimes

35 %

33 %

35 %

34 %

Never

11 %

15 %

10 %

15 %

13 %

Difficult to answer

10 %

Total

100 %

Question 33. Are you satisfied with the teaching you get in your school? Girls

Boys

14 years

16 years

Total

Yes, always

38 %

42 %

44 %

36 %

40 %

Often

32 %

28 %

27 %

32 %

30 %

Sometimes

21 %

18 %

21 %

19 %

Never

Difficult to answer

100 %

Total

Question 35. Have you read the statute of your school? Girls

Boys

14 years

16 years

Total

Yes

46 %

38 %

46 %

38 %

42 %

54 %

62 %

54 %

62 %

58 %

Total

100 %

Question 36. Have you been involved in the development of the studentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s statute? Girls

Boys

14 years

16 years

Total

Yes

12 %

13 %

10 %

12 %

57 %

50 %

49 %

59 %

54 %

Difficult to answer

31 %

38 %

31 %

34 %

Total

100 %

Question 37. Has school taught you how to use Internet safely? Girls

Boys

14 years

16 years

Total

Yes

53 %

51 %

61 %

44 %

52 %

32 %

34 %

27 %

39 %

33 %

Difficult to answer

15 %

12 %

17 %

15 %

100 %

Total

100 %

40 Question 38. Do you feel that teachers at your school work to stop bullying? Girls

Boys

14 years

16 years

Total

Yes

39 %

38 %

45 %

32 %

38 %

22 %

20 %

17 %

26 %

Don't know

39 %

42 %

38 %

Total

100 %

Question 41. Do you feel safe on your way to and from school? Girls

Boys

14 years

16 years

Total

Always

53 %

63 %

61 %

54 %

58 %

21 %

Mostly yes

37 %

27 %

30 %

34 %

32 %

42 %

41 %

Mostly no

100 %

Never

Don't know

100 %

Question 39. At your school, are there any opportunities for you to present your opinion on, for example, school meals, breaks, schoolwork or other things concerning school? Girls

Boys

14 years

16 years

Total

Very often

12 %

16 %

14 %

Often

24 %

28 %

24 %

26 %

Sometimes

39 %

35 %

32 %

42 %

37 %

Never

25 %

21 %

26 %

20 %

23 %

Total

100 %

Question 40. Do you think that your school does enough for children with disabilities who need special support? Girls

Boys

14 years

16 years

Total

Yes

30 %

29 %

36 %

23 %

29 %

27 %

26 %

21 %

31 %

27 %

Don't know

43 %

45 %

43 %

46 %

44 %

Total

100 %

Total

Question 42. Do you feel safe at school? Girls

Boys

14 years

16 years

Total

Always

60 %

61 %

65 %

57 %

60 %

Mostly yes

33 %

31 %

28 %

35 %

32 %

Mostly no

Never

Don't know

100 %

Total

Question 43. Do you feel safe in the classroom? Girls

Boys

14 years

16 years

Total

Always

74 %

79 %

69 %

74 %

Mostly yes

21 %

22 %

16 %

25 %

21 %

Mostly no

Never

Don't know

100 %

Total

41 Question 44. Do you feel safe at breaks? Girls

Boys

14 years

16 years

Total

Always

48 %

57 %

53 %

51 %

53 %

Mostly yes

38 %

31 %

34 %

36 %

Mostly no

Never

Don't know

3% 100 %

Total

Girls

Boys

14 years

16 years

Total

Always

57 %

59 %

62 %

54 %

58 %

35 %

Mostly yes

33 %

31 %

28 %

36 %

32 %

Mostly no

Never

Don't know

100 %

Question 45. Do you feel safe in the area where you live during daytime? Girls

Boys

14 years

16 years

Total

Always

66 %

70 %

73 %

64 %

68 %

Mostly yes

28 %

22 %

28 %

25 %

Mostly no

Never

Don't know

100 %

Total

Question 46. Do you feel safe in the evening in the area where you live? Girls

Boys

14 years

16 years

Total

Always

45 %

56 %

53 %

48 %

50 %

Mostly yes

27 %

22 %

23 %

26 %

25 %

Mostly no

20 %

13 %

17 %

16 %

17 %

Never

Don't know

100 %

Total

Question 47. Do you feel safe in the place of your out-of-school activity (youth club, centre, hobby group)?

Total

Question 48. Do you feel safe in the centre of your settlement during daytime? Girls

Boys

14 years

16 years

Total

Always

55 %

62 %

64 %

54 %

58 %

Mostly yes

35 %

30 %

29 %

36 %

33 %

Mostly no

Never

Don't know

100 %

Total

Question 49. Do you feel safe in the centre of your settlement in the evening? Girls

Boys

14 years

16 years

Total

Always

28 %

39 %

37 %

30 %

33 %

Mostly yes

36 %

33 %

37 %

33 %

35 %

Mostly no

25 %

18 %

17 %

25 %

22 %

Never

Don't know

100 %

Total

42 Question 50.Do you feel safe on the bus, trolleybus, share taxi etc. during daytime?

Girls

Boys

14 years

16 years

Total

Always

89 %

85 %

88 %

87 %

38 %

Mostly yes

11 %

10 %

19 %

16 %

Mostly no

Never

Don't know

100 %

Girls

Boys

14 years

16 years

Total

Girls

Boys

14 years

16 years

Total

Always

34 %

42 %

39 %

37 %

38 %

Mostly yes

39 %

38 %

41 %

36 %

Mostly no

18 %

13 %

12 %

Never

Don't know

5% 100 %

Total

Question 52. Do you feel safe at home?

Question 51. Do you feel safe in the evening on the bus, trolleybus, share taxi, etc.?

Total

Question 53. Do you feel safe online?

Girls

Boys

14 years

16 years

Total

Always

22 %

38 %

32 %

28 %

30 %

Always

53 %

64 %

62 %

55 %

58 %

Mostly yes

31 %

30 %

33 %

28 %

30 %

Mostly yes

33 %

23 %

26 %

31 %

28 %

Mostly no

34 %

22 %

25 %

30 %

28 %

Mostly no

Never

Don't know

100 %

Total

43 Question 54. During the previous year, have you been worried about any of the following? Girls

Boys

14 years

16 years

Total

Not to be able to manage school

51 %

35 %

41 %

45 %

43 %

Be subjected to racism

Be harassed because of the internally displaced status

Be bullied

14 %

11 %

Experience violence from other children

10 %

11 %

Experience violence from adults

That your family will be evicted

That you will harm yourself

That you will not be able to decide who you will be together with (mom or dad following divorce)

That you will not receive enough help at school

That your parents will kick you out so you cannot live at home any more

That your family will not have enough money for their needs

18 %

16 %

17 %

18 %

17 %

Havenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t been worried about any of the above

35 %

50 %

43 %

42 %

43 %

44 Question 55. During the previous year, has this happened to you? Girls

Boys

14 years

16 years

Total

Seen someone hit or punched

36 %

44 %

38 %

41 %

40 %

Ran away from or been kicked out of home

Received insulting online messages from other children Received insulting messages on your mobile phone from other children Adults contacted you and wanted to talk about unpleasant things

Nothing of the above

19 %

53 %

24 %

45 %

22 %

50 %

21 %

22 %

48 %

49 %

Question 56. During the previous year, have you ever felt stressed over schoolwork? Girls

Boys

14 years

16 years

Total

Not at all

26 %

40 %

34 %

31 %

33 %

Sometimes

52 %

47 %

49 %

51 %

50 %

Many times

22 %

13 %

17 %

18 %

17 %

Total

100 %

Question 57. During the previous year, have you ever felt stressed over your grades? Girls

Boys

14 years

16 years

Total

Not at all

28 %

37 %

29 %

36 %

33 %

Sometimes

51 %

48 %

53 %

46 %

49 %

Many times

21 %

15 %

18 %

Total

100 %

Question 58. During the previous year, have you felt sad or down for a longer period of time? Girls

Boys

14 years

16 years

Total

Not at all

29 %

46 %

40 %

35 %

37 %

Sometimes

53 %

41 %

46 %

47 %

Many times

18 %

13 %

14 %

18 %

16 %

Total

100 %

Question 59. During the previous year, have you felt that you are bullied or harassed? Girls

Boys

14 years

16 years

Total

Not at all

79 %

83 %

84 %

79 %

81 %

Sometimes

17 %

12 %

16 %

14 %

Many times

100 %

Total

45 Question 60. If you have felt bullied or harassed at any time during the previous year, was this due to…7

Youth faith/religion? That your family is badly off?

Girls

Boys

14 years

16 years

Total

16 %

11 %

13 %

12 %

18 %

19 %

24 %

14 %

18 %

That your parents come from another country?

That you or your family are internally displaced persons?

That you or your family are disabled?

Your gender?

10 %

Your appearance?

49 %

45 %

49 %

46 %

47 %

Your age?

12 %

22 %

16 %

Other causes

24 %

16 %

24 %

21 %

Answers under the option “Other causes”: Preferences Mind-set different from other people’s views Behaviour Willingness to do art Abuse of power by teachers Dispute

Question 61. Do you know where to go if you need to talk to someone or to get help, if you are feeling bad mentally?

Excluding respondents who answered “Not at all” in Question 59

Girls

Boys

14 years

16 years

Total

Yes

72 %

68 %

72 %

67 %

69 %

29 %

32 %

28 %

33 %

31 %

Total

100 %

Question 62. Do you know where to go if you need to talk to someone or to get help, if you have problems in the family? Girls

Boys

14 years

16 years

Total

Yes

51 %

50 %

54 %

48 %

51 %

49 %

50 %

46 %

52 %

49 %

Total

100 %

Question 63. Do you know where to go if you need to talk to someone or to get help, if you or someone you know has been exposed to violence, threats, or other crimes? Girls

Boys

14 years

16 years

Total

Yes

51 %

54 %

51 %

53 %

49 %

46 %

49 %

47 %

Total

100 %

Question 64. Do you know where to go if you need to talk to someone or to get help, if you feel harassed or unfairly treated? Girls

Boys

14 years

16 years

Total

Yes

55 %

52 %

57 %

50 %

53 %

45 %

48 %

43 %

50 %

47 %

Total

100 %

46 Question 68. If you don’t trust a school psychologist / social pedagogue, please explain why?9

Question 65. Does your school have a psychological service (a psychologist, a social pedagogue)?8 Girls

Boys

14 years

16 years

Total

Yes

82 %

76 %

81 %

77 %

79 %

12 %

10 %

I don't know

11 %

12 %

10 %

13 %

12 %

Total

100 %

The following responses were provided: I don’t know this person well During our conversation he/she offended my friends Difficult to answer He/she asks very strange questions He/she protects “teacher’s pets”

Question 66. What types of assistance did members of your school’s psychological service offer during the past academic year?

He/she is a hypocrite He/she is scary and seems crazy

Girls

Boys

14 years

16 years

Total

Individual work (counselling, diagnostics)

42 %

41 %

43 %

39 %

41 %

Group work (lectures, conversations)

46 %

43 %

47 %

43 %

45 %

Testing

69 %

67 %

69 %

67 %

68 %

I feel that the teacher will find out

Trainings

32 %

28 %

30 %

31 %

30 %

He/she is weird, and I don’t like that this person knows many things about others

―

It is very scary

No assistance

His/her methods seem too primitive He/she does not perform his/her duties He/she is not competent enough He/she might retell the content of our conversation

The psychologist has archaic mind-set

Question 67. Do you trust your school psychologist / social pedagogue?

Girls

Boys

14 years

16 years

Total

Yes

45 %

56 %

45 %

50 %

23 %

19 %

23 %

21 %

Did not deal with them

32 %

25 %

32 %

29 %

Total

100 %

Questions 66, 67 and 68 are only for those who answered “Yes” in Question 65

This is an outsider who pries into my private life

Only for those who answered “No” in Question 67

47 Question 69. How do you regard your future? Girls

Boys

14 years

16 years

Total

Very positively

32 %

30 %

33 %

29 %

31 %

Positively

43 %

38 %

43 %

39 %

41 %

Negatively

Very negatively

Difficult to answer

21 %

28 %

21 %

28 %

Total

100 %

Question 70. Do you think you will be able to get a job in Ukraine when you leave school? Girls

Boys

14 years

16 years

Total

Yes

41 %

38 %

48 %

32 %

39 %

Maybe

41 %

37 %

34 %

43 %

39 %

24 %

Don't know

13 %

16 %

13 %

16 %

15 %

100 %

Total

100 %