Sexual violence related to the conflict in Ukraine

Abstract

Introduction: Conflict-related sexual violence is one of the most difficult and urgent problems related to the actions taken against the civilian population in Ukraine after the russian invasion of our territory. For hundreds of years, sexual violence accompanied all wars. Unfortunately, during the hostilities on the territory of Ukraine, there were also repeated cases of sexual violence by the russian military against the population of Ukraine. It should also be noted that the procedure of recording such cases existing in Ukraine is imperfect and sometimes even traumatic for the victim. Purpose of the Research: The purpose of this study is to improve the current procedure for recording crimes and improve the condition of victims of conflict-related sexual violence. Materials and Methods: According to the latest data of the Office of the Prosecutor General of Ukraine, 252 cases of sexual violence related to the conflict were recorded. However, the actual number of victims is much higher. Territories still remain occupied, people may be afraid or ashamed to ask for help because this fact is very traumatic. Results: In order to resolve this issue, the Ukrainian government is taking measures aimed at creating conditions that will promote safety, confidentiality, non-discrimination and respect for the affected person. One of the important points during the armed conflict is compliance with the norms of the Istanbul Convention, and one of the important steps on this way was its ratification by Ukraine in 2022. In addition, an interdepartmental working group consisting of representatives of the Office of the General Prosecutor, the National Police of Ukraine and the Security Service of Ukraine, as well as forensic doctors with the participation of the international organizations of Global Rights Compliance and Synergy for justice was created in Ukraine. The mission of this working group is to develop standard operating procedures for the investigation and prosecution of conflict-related sexual violence in order to ensure effective victim-centred criminal proceedings, taking into account their trauma and needs. Discussion: The main directions for ensuring the most favorable conditions for victims are the organization of access to quality-assured, safe and comprehensive services, namely health care, psychosocial services, safety and protection, legal aid and economic support. Ukraine is currently on the way of transformation, and the issue of sexual violence is no exception. Therefore, the question of creating a new system of documenting crimes is open and is at the stage of active changes and discussions in order to create the most optimal standards that can be applied in such cases. Conclusions: Therefore, we would like to note that currently Ukraine is on the way to creating a new, more perfect and less traumatic system of documenting sexual crimes and is doing everything possible to help and alleviate the moral suffering of victims of conflict-related sexual violence.