New research: Displaced Ukrainian children use AI every day but overestimate existing safeguards

Children displaced from Ukraine are using artificial intelligence (AI) frequently for schoolwork, creativity and even emotional support. But while they recognise many of AI’s risks, they often assume governments and technology companies have already put the necessary protections in place—even though significant gaps remain.

These are the findings of new research conducted by Terre des Hommes Netherlands, led by Technical expert Eva Notté, and published by Kids in Need of Defense (KIND) Europe. The report was developed as part of the Suzir’ya project, a partnership focused on the online safety of children displaced from Ukraine.

The study involved focus group discussions with 27 Ukrainian children and young people aged 14 to 21 living in Poland and Slovakia, alongside interviews with 14 child protection stakeholders. It is one of the first studies to explore how displaced children use, understand and experience AI.

AI as both a tool and a companion

For most chilren, AI is already embedded in everyday life. They use tools such as ChatGPT, Gemini and DeepSeek for homework, language support, finding information, creating images and videos, and brainstorming ideas. Many described AI as something that saves time and helps them learn more efficiently.

One finding stood out: displaced Ukrainian children also use AI for companionship and emotional support. Some said they turn to AI when they feel lonely or need someone to talk to. Stakeholders linked this to the realities of displacement, including disrupted support networks, language barriers and fewer trusted adults nearby.

At the same time, both children and experts warned that AI cannot replace human relationships or professional mental health support.

Excited about AI—but aware of its risks

Children generally showed a strong practical understanding of AI and recognised that it can make mistakes or provide inaccurate information. Many said they already verify AI-generated answers using other sources.

Despite their enthusiasm, children and stakeholders also identified several concerns:

• Overreliance on AI and reduced face-to-face interaction.
• AI-generated misinformation, particularly around the war in Ukraine and national identity.
• Privacy risks when sharing personal information.
• AI-generated harmful content, including the creation of child sexual abuse material from existing photographs.
• Concerns that AI could replace jobs in the future.

Children overestimate existing protections

Perhaps the report’s most important finding is the disconnect between children’s expectations and reality. Many assumed that governments and technology companies had already introduced effective safeguards to protect children using AI. However, they also admitted they would not know where to report AI-related harm if something went wrong.

Stakeholders confirmed that dedicated guidance on safe AI use remains limited, while regulation, accountability and reporting mechanisms have not kept pace with the rapid development of AI technologies.

The report concludes that children should not be expected to navigate these risks alone.

Stronger safeguards are urgently needed

The researchers call on governments, technology companies, schools, parents and child protection organisations to take greater responsibility for children’s online safety.

Recommendations include strengthening laws on AI-related harms, adopting Safety by Design principles, improving AI literacy in schools, providing parents with practical guidance, and ensuring children have accessible ways to report harmful AI experiences.

As AI rapidly becomes part of children’s everyday lives, the report stresses that protection systems must evolve just as quickly—particularly for children who are already living with the additional challenges of displacement.

Read the full report: How Children Displaced from Ukraine Use and View AI.