How can we teach children about safety in a way that truly captures their attention and helps them retain important lessons? The answer lies in an innovative and interactive approach—introducing Safe Code Mission!

This exciting new card game, developed by the Police Stabilization Project (PSP) in collaboration with the Patrol Police of Ukraine, is designed to help children and teenagers recognize, understand, and prevent various safety risks, including domestic violence and bullying. By turning complex and serious topics into an engaging experience, Safe Code Mission encourages young players to think critically about real-life situations and develop practical responses. Since 2015, PSP has worked alongside Ukraine’s National Police (NPU) and the Ministry of Internal Affairs (MOIA) to enhance public safety and build police capacity to address the evolving challenges of wartime policing.

Police officers from the Community Policing Unit and inspectors from the School Safety Service will facilitate sessions and integrations with young Ukrainians, using the game as a tool to spark meaningful discussions. Through interactive gameplay, children will explore different scenarios, analyze potential dangers, and learn safe and effective ways to respond.

“We wanted to create a game that is not only interesting but also instills a sense of social responsibility,”

said Olena Dashutina, PSP’s Sexual and Gender-Based Violence Component Lead.

“Our goal is to help children understand risks, equip them with the knowledge to protect themselves, and encourage teamwork, mutual support, and trust-building. We hope this game empowers them to identify safe solutions and know where to seek help when needed.”

The launch of Safe Code Mission comes at a crucial time for Ukraine. As the country continues to face the challenges of war, the role of law enforcement has expanded beyond traditional policing. Officers are not only protecting civilians from external threats but are also serving as pillars of stability within their communities. They play a vital role in maintaining social cohesion, offering guidance, and supporting the most vulnerable—especially children, who have been profoundly affected by the war.

By engaging directly with youth through educational initiatives like Safe Code Mission, police officers are fostering a sense of trust and cooperation. They are demonstrating that law enforcement is not just about enforcing rules but about building a safer and more resilient society.

This initiative highlights the importance of community-based policing, where officers act as mentors and educators. It also reinforces the idea that safety is a shared responsibility—one that requires awareness, communication, and mutual support.

The game has already been introduced to police officers and will soon be tested in schools across Ukraine. By combining education with play, Safe Code Mission represents a promising step toward equipping children with the knowledge and confidence to navigate risks, ensuring they grow up feeling protected and empowered, even in times of uncertainty.