Ukraine: Combating Gender-Based Violence in wartime

The war in Ukraine has increased the risks of gender-based violence, leaving women and girls particularly vulnerable. In Chernihiv Oblast, the Danish Refugee Council (DRC) is working to raise awareness and provide safe spaces for survivors, despite challenges such as air raid sirens and difficulties reaching remote locations.

"Breaking the silence around gender-based violence is essential," says Maryna Kovtun, DRC GBV Team Leader. "Safe spaces and awareness sessions help challenge harmful norms and empower women to see new possibilities."

During these sessions, the team tackles harmful stereotypes and explores the possibilities of equality. "We start with simple ideas—sharing household chores, wearing pink clothes, or becoming mechanics—and then dismantle the myths," Maryna explains. "We talk about what true gender equality can look like."

One participant’s heartfelt words after a session underscored the impact of these efforts: "Come back. I want to continue this conversation." Moments like this highlight the importance of fostering dialogue and building hope.

Addressing societal stigma

Stigma remains a major obstacle in addressing GBV. Survivors often face disbelief, blame, or silence when seeking help. Traditional gender norms can further discourage conversations about abuse.

To combat this, DRC’s initiatives focus on creating safe spaces and teaching women and girls emotional resilience and new ways of thinking about their roles in society. Over 320 women in Chernihiv Oblast have attended these sessions, with many now feeling better equipped to challenge harmful norms and explore new possibilities for their lives.

"The response shows how urgent the need is,” Maryna notes. “Each session is a step toward breaking the cycle of silence and violence.”

Comprehensive support services

DRC’s GBV programme combines awareness-raising with hands-on support. In safe spaces, women and girls can find resources, join workshops, or simply take a break from the pressures of daily life.

Key services include case management and safe referral systems that connect survivors to legal, psychological, and social support. A dedicated hotline, available Monday through Friday, ensures survivors can reach trained staff who assess their needs and coordinate referrals for further assistance.

Flexibility is also crucial. “We adjust our schedules to meet survivors where they are,” Maryna explains. This approach ensures that even women in remote areas can access support.

Engaging men and boys

To effectively address GBV, it’s essential to involve men and boys in conversations about equality and violence prevention. “We can’t raise awareness only among women and girls—it must be a community effort,” says a GBV team member.

Although activities for men and boys are still limited, there is growing interest in expanding this focus. Future plans include finding meaningful ways to engage men and boys in breaking harmful norms and supporting gender equality.

Empowering generations and looking ahead

The journey toward gender equality often begins with small but meaningful shifts in understanding. As one participant said after an awareness session, "I always thought this was the only way to live because it was how my mother lived. I never imagined things could be different."

For Maryna, these moments of realization make all the challenges worthwhile. “It’s not just about providing services—it’s about showing people another way is possible,” she says.

Building a society where GBV is no longer a reality takes consistent effort and collaboration. Through its work in Ukraine, DRC is addressing urgent needs while fostering changes that can support equality and safety in the future.