In the temporarily occupied Luhansk Oblast, Russian forces have repurposed schools into centers for military propaganda, forcing children to attend classes that promote extreme nationalist ideologies, including materials depicting 'Ukrainian Nazism.' The curriculum now includes videos showing tortured Ukrainian troops, aimed at shaping a narrative that justifies war crimes against the Ukrainian military. This represents a serious violation of their rights and international humanitarian law.

Reports from the East SOS charitable foundation indicate that since 2014, education in these occupied areas has been aligned with Russian educational standards, but this initiative has escalated significantly since the beginning of the current conflict in 2022. The intention behind this educational manipulation is to instill in children the belief that violence against Ukrainian forces is not only permissible but honorable, sowing seeds of enmity and creating a rift in their national identity.

This strategic educational campaign raises grave concerns about the mental and moral repercussions on young minds subjected to such extremist ideologies. Parents and local communities face dire consequences as they navigate the repercussions of such indoctrination, fearing for their children's future amidst ongoing conflict and territorial disputes. The challenge lies in countering this narrative and restoring a sense of identity among these children in a war-torn environment.