The Council of Europe Consultation Group on the Children of Ukraine (CGU) held its 11th plenary meeting online on 23 September 2026. The event brought together more than 100 representatives from member states, including Ukrainian authorities, international organisations, and civil society partners to discuss the growing cross-border challenges faced by displaced children and help shape CGU's future direction. 

Discussions focused on children moving out of temporary protection, their transition to adulthood, and national responses. Participants highlighted the need for transition pathways that are gradual, predictable, and coordinated so that children experience as little disruption as possible. They explored practical issues such as continuity in education, healthcare, and guardianship; the needs of vulnerable families and young people phasing out of  care; and how to provide children and adolescents  with clear and accessible information about their possibilities and the transition process.

Participants also held in-depth discussions on key challenges across the CGU's thematic areas and identified issues that the CGU could additionally prioritise in its work for 2027–2030. Discussions will continue at the next plenary session, which will take place in Strasbourg on 1-3 December 2026.