Myths and stereotypes: internally displaced women in Kharkiv analysed forms of conflict-related sexual violence
Internally displaced women now living in Kharkiv looked into the forms of conflict-related sexual violence and why it is classified as a war crime.
Rokada GBV specialist Svitlana Tkachenko explained the main risks and vulnerability factors for civilians in the context of the full-scale invasion.
“Conflict-related sexual violence remains one of the most silenced topics because of stereotypes in society. Our task as specialists is to explain to different audiences that it is a war crime, not a reason for shame, and that help can be sought safely and confidentially,” notes Svitlana Tkachenko, adding that dozens of humanitarian organisations and state bodies have now developed safe services for people who have experienced violence. “It is important not to be afraid to seek help: firstly, the recovery process depends on making that decision, and secondly, psychological help and legal support are provided free of charge.”
Information on assistance to people who have experienced physical, psychological, sexual and economic violence – for service providers, staff of humanitarian and civil society organisations, and community representatives
The project is implemented by the Rokada Charitable Foundation with the support of Agenzia Italiana per la Cooperazione allo Sviluppo (AICS) in partnership with the Bukovinian Agency for Initiatives and Development (BAID) and Un Ponte Per ETS (UPP).
