Ukrainian Red Cross representatives take part in the international Mental Health and Psychosocial Support Forum in Prague

The Ukrainian Red Cross team took part in the annual MHPSS Central Asian and European Network Forum, held in Prague, Czech Republic, on 4–6 November.

Representatives of National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies also took part in a pre-forum workshop, “Changing the Agenda: Prioritising MHPSS through Advocacy,” focused on advocacy for mental health and psychosocial support. Participants worked on defining advocacy goals, identifying target audiences and stakeholders, and developing action plans and key messages.

The forum brought together representatives of National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies from across Europe and Central Asia. Discussions focused on advocacy for mental health and psychosocial support, support for children and young people, the development of community-based programmes, and ways to ensure their sustainability and funding.

Participants shared good practices and lessons learned, discussed opportunities to integrate effective approaches into National Societies’ programmes and explored ways to strengthen advocacy efforts.

For the Ukrainian Red Cross, taking part in international professional forums such as this provides an opportunity to share Ukraine’s experience, learn from the practices of other National Societies and strengthen cooperation within the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement. The knowledge and tools gained will contribute to the further development of mental health and psychosocial support programmes in Ukraine.