On “Falcons” and “Missiles”
Military-Patriotic Education in Wartime
Aleksander Palikot, Jerzy Sobotta
Deutsche Fassung
Abstract
Since Russia’s large-scale invasion in February 2022, military exercises have become the norm for millions of Ukrainian citizens. This also applies to children and adolescents. They can now choose between various “military-patriotic” summer camps and similar activities. These camps provide instruction in military sports and first aid, as well as national self-awareness and civic engagement. Cadet schools are also enjoying increasing popularity in Ukraine. The militarization of the youth seems unstoppable. However, unlike in the Russian-occupied territories, where children are forced into paramilitary activities, such programs in Ukraine are voluntary. For their participants, they often serve a therapeutic function; for society at war, they are of strategic importance.
(11-12/2025, pp. 131–142)