THE IMPORTANCE OF DEMOCRATIC EDUCATION OF UKRAINIAN REFUGEE CHILDREN DURING A FORCED STAY ABROAD

Abstract

The article examines the importance of the democratic education of Ukrainian refugee children during their temporary stay abroad due to the war, in particular in Estonia. The importance of democratic education for integrating children into the new society, protecting their rights and freedoms, and developing self-determination, self-expression, tolerance, and openness to other cultures is analyzed. Democratic education contributes to the formation of children's understanding and acceptance of the norms and values of the new environment. Also, it provides them with tools to protect personal rights and freedoms. The article shows the importance of teachers in supporting democratic values. The role of democratic education in the psychological adaptation of refugee children to new conditions and increasing their self-esteem is determined. The data from previous studies on the socio-psychological state of Ukrainian refugee children in Estonia are presented. The results of this study are based on a survey of Ukrainian teachers and children temporarily staying in Estonia. For this purpose, two questionnaires were created with different types of questions according to the purpose of the research. They made it possible to assess the degree of importance of democratic education for refugees. The findings indicate that schoolchildren are interested in developing constructive communication skills, preserving their own identity and cultural heritage, and democratic participation in society. The analysis of teachers' answers shows an understanding of the importance of civic education and a willingness to participate in the project for the formation of the necessary knowledge and skills. The general conclusions demonstrate that democratic education contributes to the formation of active members of society and the preparation of children to participate in the reconstruction of Ukraine after the war.