“Millions of Ukrainians were forced to change their place of residence, leaving behind their jobs and familiar lives. In these new conditions, the risks of labor rights violations increase. Therefore, knowing how to protect oneself is critically important today,” noted Yana Shkuratova, the event coach and regional coordinator of the United Voices in Action program in Ternopilska Oblast.

During the training, the participants analyzed their employment situations, learned how to document violations, examined the algorithms of actions in case of employer pressure or non-payment, and identified where to turn for legal protection.

In addition to the lecture component, there was group work involving case studies, as well as individual consultations. These were provided by Volodymyr Bohush, the program’s regional lawyer in Ternopilska Oblast.

The organizers emphasized that there are three key tools that IDPs should know and use.

• First, work exclusively with official registration, as the employment contract is the primary mechanism of protection and evidence in any dispute. 
• Second, always document violations. This can include correspondence, photos, copies of applications with acceptance marks, or registered letters. 
• And third, do not be afraid to seek help. The State Labor Service, free legal aid, trade unions, and the Ombudsman are not merely symbolic institutions, but real instruments that work and are capable of effectively protecting a person.

The workshop participants noted the value of the knowledge acquired.

“For the first time, I received a clear understanding of my labor rights as an internally displaced person. Now I know where to turn and how to document violations. After the workshop, I feel more confident,” shared Olena, IDP from Khersonska Oblast.

Yevhen from Mykolaivska Oblast noted that the information was clear and applied: “The block on collecting evidence and appealing to the State Labor Service was the most memorable because I have faced this personally. Now I understand how to act and feel more protected.”

The workshop provided participants with an understanding of where and when to appeal: 

• The State Labor Service — if the employer violates the law or discriminates based on IDP status; 
• The free legal aid system — to obtain a lawyer if needed; 
• The Commissioner for Human Rights — in cases of direct discrimination; 
• Employment centers — for official employment, retraining, and education. 

They were also informed about reliable online platforms, such as Work.ua and Robota.ua, as well as human rights organizations that work with IDPs.

According to the organizers, such workshops help reduce the vulnerability of IDPs in the labor sphere and give people a sense of support and confidence. Many participants arrived with specific problems and left with clear algorithms for resolving them. 

“People saw that their situations are not isolated, and that there is a clear algorithm of actions that can help. For many, it was a discovery that even in the case of informal work, protection is possible and there are effective tools to defend one’s rights,” concluded Yana Shkuratova.

Are you an IDP and want to know more about how to protect your labor rights? We have compiled important explanations for you in a new infographic https://bit.ly/4if8Ary.

This publication was made possible within the framework of the United Voices in Action program, implemented by the international organization IREX together with the Charity Foundation “Stabilization Support Services” and with the support of the U.S. Department of State. The content is the sole responsibility of the Charity Foundation “Stabilization Support Services” and does not necessarily reflect the views of IREX and the U.S. Department of State.

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On November 14, a Declaration of Intent entitled “Sustainable and Quality Reconstruction: Involving Councils on Internally Displaced Persons in the Reconstruction Process” was presented in Kyiv. This is the first document to record a public commitment to involving displaced persons and affected communities in decision-making regarding post-war recovery. The initiative was announced by the Charity Foundation “Stabilization Support Services” during the III All-Ukrainian Forum of IDP Councils, which brought together more than 350 participants and was organized with the support of UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency in Ukraine, and the International Research & Exchanges Board (IREX), in partnership with the Ministry of Development of Communities and Territories of Ukraine.

The Declaration of Intent is a public commitment to engage in inclusive and equitable recovery. The document brings together state institutions, organizations, businesses, academia, and IDPs themselves. It sets out common goals and provides for practical steps ranging from regular consultations with IDP Councils to taking their recommendations into account in the recovery process.

The Third All-Ukrainian Forum of IDP Councils became a key platform for presenting the Declaration and discussing how to ensure the influence of IDPs on the recovery and development of communities. The forum brought together representatives of the Office of the President of Ukraine, the government, the Verkhovna Rada, local authorities, international organizations, donor structures, and representatives of IDP Councils working in communities across the country.

“Today, IDP Councils bring together more than 13,000 people, which is a large and needed strength. When the enemy wages war against civilians, millions of displaced persons suffer the most: the elderly, people with disabilities, single mothers and mothers with many children, and residents of frontline territories. The government, the civil society sector, and our partners are providing assistance, but caring also means listening to people and advocating for their interests. That is why the role of IDP Councils is extremely important today: they provide systematic advocacy, integration into new communities, work with donors, and make people feel that they have not been abandoned to face their problems alone,” said Iryna Vereshchuk, Deputy Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine, opening the forum.

From Representation to Impact

There are currently over 800 IDP Councils operating in Ukraine. These are consultative and advisory bodies, which must include IDPs themselves. They help local authorities understand the needs of people who have been forced to leave their homes, and facilitate their integration into communities.

The first two All-Ukrainian Forums of IDP Councils laid the foundation for the development of a network of Councils throughout Ukraine. In 2023, the focus was on the official recognition of the Councils and a shared vision of their role. In 2024, the focus shifted to creating a coordination mechanism and strengthening their capacity. The third forum continued along this path, focusing on how the Councils can have a real impact on recovery, development, and local policymaking.

“IDP Councils have become a powerful example of how displaced people can shape the future of their communities and inform national policies. Their lived experience, leadership, and personal understanding of people’s needs provide an essential foundation for effective and inclusive local solutions. For UNHCR, supporting these councils is a strategic commitment to strengthening Ukraine’s resilience and ensuring that the voices of displaced people continue to guide the country’s recovery,” said Bernadette Castel-Hollingsworth, UNHCR Representative in Ukraine.

The war in Ukraine has not only caused one of the largest displacements in Europe in decades, but has also demonstrated a unique example of how the government, communities, and displaced persons themselves can work together to build effective mechanisms for participation and protection.

“In Ukraine, millions have been internally displaced by war, many of them multiple times. Yet, in the face of such adversity, Ukraine has demonstrated leadership and resilience. The creation and expansion of IDP Councils across the country has been remarkable, ensuring that displaced persons have a voice in shaping the decisions that affect their lives. 

Through these Councils, Ukraine has demonstrated how inclusive governance can help rebuild trust, restore dignity, viewing IDPs as active citizens and residents with a crucial role to play in peace and recovery, even amidst ongoing war. I have seen other countries be inspired by Ukraine’s experience with IDP Councils,” emphasized Paula Gaviria Betancur, Special Rapporteur on the Human Rights of Internally Displaced Persons.

Key Topics of the Forum

The forum program was built around three strategic areas: impact, sustainable development, and partnership. Over the two days of the event, participants discussed the challenges of integrating displaced persons into communities, the effectiveness of government policy in the field of IDPs, and tools that help the Councils turn participation into real change.

Yuliia Tkachuk, project director at IREX in Ukraine, emphasized that today, the Councils work not only for displaced persons, but also change the lives of entire communities, becoming partners of the government and international organizations.

“The activists who created the first IDP Councils have become a strong professional network that influences entire communities and contributes to the transformation of public policy. This mechanism did not emerge overnight. It emerged thanks to the support of partners and the courage of people who were not just forcibly relocated but also started to improve their new communities. The IDP Council is a living organism. Some of them work effectively, some are in the process of decomposing, and some are undergoing transformation. We will continue to support the IDP Councils by organizing training, exchanging experiences, and providing opportunities to share useful solutions that they develop in the course of their practical work,” said Yuliia Tkachuk.

The key results of the development of the network of IDP Councils over the past year were presented during the forum. Olha Ivanova, Director of Development and Advocacy Programs at the CF “Stabilization Support Services”, said that this year alone, the CF SSS team held four interregional forums, over a hundred strategic sessions, webinars, and seminars, more than 70 training sessions, and provided nearly 800 consultations to council members.

The network has also gained international visibility: Ukrainian IDP Councils have been discussed in Brussels, Berlin, Geneva, The Hague, Toronto, and Rome, and experts and government officials from various countries have begun to study Ukraine’s experience.

“In 2018, when I initiated the development of the IDP Council concept, my colleagues and I could not have imagined that in seven years, this idea would grow into such a huge, expert, motivated network. We believed that displaced persons in Ukraine would be able to restore their rights, that life in communities affected by the war could change for the better, and that together we could achieve more. And then our partners and our government believed in us and gave the IDP Councils a chance. Now the IDP Council network is more than just an idea, a project, or an organization. You have influence and the right to decide how to use that influence,” said Olha Ivanova.

The panel discussions focused on the role of the IDP Councils in creating decent living conditions for displaced persons, their participation in community reconstruction, and strengthening their influence at the local level.

Practical Focus and New Partnerships

The forum became not only a platform for discussion but also a practical venue for learning, networking, and exchanging experiences. Participants worked in groups, developed budget requests, learned effective communication skills, and discussed models of sustainability and opportunities for financing local initiatives.

During the forum, the national award “For the Future” was presented for the first time — an award for the most active members of the IDP Councils in three categories: “Leadership and Advocacy,” “Innovation and Initiatives,” and “The Power of Cooperation.”

Another event was the “Alley of Opportunities. IDP Business Fair,” where relocated entrepreneurs presented their products, shared stories of recovery, and showed how business can become part of rebuilding new communities. Given that more than 8,000 businesses were relocated in Ukraine in the first eight months of 2025 alone, the fair became tangible proof of their ability to quickly adapt, expand production, enter new markets, and form partnerships in communities. For many participants, this was the point where they first saw themselves not as a relocated business, but as a business that is already developing with confidence.

The organizers will use the forum’s results to put together a set of recommendations for national and local authorities, based on the Councils’ regional experience. These recommendations should serve as the foundation for further integrating IDP Councils into national policy and enhancing their role in local democracy.

For reference:
IDP Councils are advisory bodies affiliated with local authorities, whose activities are governed by Resolution No. 812 of the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine, dated August 2, 2023. They ensure the participation of IDPs in local self-government, assist in resolving social issues, and promote integration into communities.

The Forum was organized by the Charity Foundation “Stabilization Support Services” in partnership with the Ministry for Development of Communities and Territories of Ukraine, with the support of UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency in Ukraine, and the International Research and Exchanges Board (IREX in Ukraine). 

The content of this publication is the sole responsibility of the CF “Stabilization Support Services” and does not necessarily reflect the views of UNHCR, the United Nations Refugee Agency in Ukraine, and the International Research and Exchanges Board (IREX in Ukraine).

Запис Ukraine Launches Signing of Declaration on Involving Internally Displaced Persons in Recovery Efforts: Initiative Presented at Third All-Ukrainian Forum of IDP Councils спершу з'явиться на United Voices in Action.

On September 23, in Rivne, a workshop was held on who can receive this support, what documents are needed, and what to do in the event of a refusal. The event was organized for internally displaced families as part of the United Voices in Action program, implemented by the international organization IREX together with the Ukrainian charity foundation Stabilization Support Services, with the support of the U.S. Department of State.

The workshop was attended by 15 people — IDPs, parents of young children seeking employment, and local residents who want to combine childcare with work or study.

Eligibility for Compensation from the Government 

Various categories of families are eligible for compensation. In particular, these include IDP families with children under three years old displaced by the war. The program is also available for children up to six years old if one of the parents has a Group I or II disability, or if the child has a disability or a serious illness and requires care. In addition, support is provided to families with children up to six years old in communities where kindergartens are officially not operating due to the security situation.

During the workshop, families were given detailed information on where to look for a nanny and how to verify her official status, as well as what documents need to be prepared and submitted. Participants were explained how to correctly draw up a contract with a municipal nanny and which clauses to pay attention to. The most common reasons for refusal were discussed separately, as was the procedure to follow if the nanny changes or the family moves.

“This is the first I’ve heard that I can use this program. It’s a chance to go back to work and know that my child is being looked after,” said one of the participants, Alina.

“The most valuable part was that they showed us examples of documents and explained how to avoid mistakes,” added another participant, Oksana.

Many IDPs are unaware of programs that can make their lives easier, so such events provide an opportunity to get information directly from experts. In addition, participation in the workshop promotes social integration: people get to know each other and share experiences.

“We wanted every family to leave the workshop not just with information, but with a practical action plan for receiving compensation. I expect that more families will actually be able to use the program. Municipal Nanny is an opportunity for IDP families to combine raising children with work and integration into the community. What matters most is to correctly prepare the documents and know your rights,” noted Natalia Rusakova, the regional coordinator of the United Voices in Action program in Rivnenska Oblast, who conducted the workshop.

Where and How to Find a Nanny 

Finding a nanny is a responsible step, as both the quality of care and the ability to receive compensation depend on it. Families usually look for help through official agencies, job sites, local communities, or recommendations from other parents.

Experts advise paying attention not only to documents but also to practical experience working with children of the appropriate age. Reviews, a medical certificate, and the willingness to sign an official written contract are also important. The contract is the key condition for participation in the Municipal Nanny program.

Workshop participants learned that the compensation is not included in the family’s total income and therefore does not affect other social benefits. It was also emphasized that it is important for parents to carefully check the nanny’s status in the Unified State Register, clearly define the terms of the contract (including the procedure during an air raid alert), and keep all supporting documents.

For reference: The Municipal Nanny program has been in effect since 2019 and, during the period of martial law, has expanded conditions for internally displaced persons and communities where kindergartens are not operating. The compensation is up to 8,000 hryvnias per month (165 hours of care), but not more than the actual cost of services. A nanny can be chosen from among individual entrepreneurs or legal entities with the appropriate registration.

This publication was made possible within the framework of the United Voices in Action program, implemented by the international organization IREX together with the Ukrainian Charity Foundation “Stabilization Support Services” and with the support of the U.S. Department of State. The content is the sole responsibility of the Ukrainian Charity Foundation “Stabilization Support Services” and does not necessarily reflect the views of IREX and the U.S. Department of State.

Запис Using the Municipal Nanny Program: Workshop for IDP Families Held in Rivne спершу з'явиться на United Voices in Action.

The event, titled “Safety on the Web: Countering Cyberbullying and Online Protection in the Context of Internal Displacement,” was held for displaced persons living in a collective center. The workshop was organized as part of the United Voices in Action program, implemented by the international organization IREX, the Ukrainian Charity Foundation “Stabilization Support Services,” and with support from the U.S. Department of State.

Digital security is a concern for everyone, regardless of age or social status. However, internally displaced persons often find themselves at higher risk. Scammers see them as potential targets, as displaced people must search online for information about aid, housing, or social benefits, often requiring them to share their personal documents. Beyond fraud, IDPs also face cyberbullying on social media.

“Cyberbullying is a form of harassment that uses the Internet and mobile technologies to humiliate or harm someone. This can include spreading rumors, posting offensive comments or photos, sharing false information, or excluding people from online communities. Unlike traditional bullying, cyberbullying is amplified by anonymity and the ability to track anyone anywhere, anytime,” explained Iryna Pylypenko, the United Voices in Action program coordinator in Volynska Oblast, who led the workshop.

The four-hour event was attended by 15 people of various ages, from young adults to seniors in their 60s and 70s. Participants actively asked questions, shared their own experiences, and learned through practical examples.

“This workshop helps internally displaced persons gain crucial knowledge about safe online behavior and personal data protection. Participants learned how to recognize and counter cyberbullying, which is especially important amid the stress of adapting to a new place,” added Iryna Pylypenko.

The event covered different types of cyberbullying, its warning signs, and how to distinguish it from ordinary jokes or disagreements. The discussion also covered administrative and criminal liability for online harassment.

The practical session featured group exercises where participants created “10 Rules of Online Safety for IDPs” and worked through real-life case studies, practicing response strategies for handling attacks, slander, and personal data theft.

Participants emphasized that the knowledge they gained will be invaluable for their daily Internet use.

“I never used to think about how important it is to verify sources of information or secure my accounts. Now I realize that my safety and peace of mind depend on simple actions, like blocking users or knowing how not to react to provocations. I know what to do if my rights are violated online and where to find legal support. It’s empowering,” said participant Liubov Matsnieva.

Another participant, Yevheniia Vysotska, also shared her impressions:

“The workshop was very helpful. I learned how to protect my data online and respond appropriately to cyberbullying. The advice on safe online communication was especially valuable.”

The organizers noted that such events not only enhance the digital literacy of those forced to leave their homes but also foster a space of trust and mutual support. Ultimately, knowing how to stay safe online is a vital tool for adaptation, self-protection, and psychological resilience during the war.

This publication was made possible within the framework of the United Voices in Action program, implemented by the international organization IREX together with the Ukrainian Charity Foundation “Stabilization Support Services” and with the support of the U.S. Department of State. The content is the sole responsibility of the Ukrainian Charity Foundation “Stabilization Support Services” and does not necessarily reflect the views of IREX and the U.S. Department of State.

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The event was held as part of the “United Voices in Action” program implemented by the international organization IREX together with the CF “Stabilization Support Services” and with the support of the US Department of State.

Internally displaced persons in Ukraine often face a number of problems, including psychological stress, anxiety, fatigue, economic difficulties, etc. Persons with disabilities find themselves in a more difficult situation, as they often also face discrimination — a direct violation of human rights and fundamental freedoms in various spheres of life.

Trainer Natalia Openko, who is the regional coordinator of the “Unite for Action” program in Cherkasy region, noted that many participants were surprised by the topic of the training, as the issue of discrimination based on disability is rarely discussed. If a person does not have such experience and disability, then such concerns seem to not exist for them.

“When analyzing specific cases, it turned out that many situations typically perceived as ordinary are manifestations of discrimination. The topic aroused interest, especially in the adaptation of people with disabilities in a new place and the psychological challenges they face,” the trainer noted.

During the training, the participants discussed

the main barriers to discrimination based on disability in the context of internal displacement

how to act for people who have been discriminated against: what to do, where to go, what evidence to collect

what support programs and social services exist for people with disabilities, including IDPs, and other issues.

Under the guidance of Natalia Openko, the training participants analyzed practical situations in the mini-group format.

“Such trainings can change the situation in society. They draw attention to the problem and make people who do not have their own traumatic experience think that there are people who need help nearby,” the trainer is convinced.

Training participant Iryna confirmed that the topic is important and relevant. After all, the problems of IDPs, both social and psychological, remain, and they are not getting smaller. 

“Unfortunately, the number of people with disabilities is also increasing due to the war in the country. It is very important that these people have equal opportunities and know where to go for help if they need it,” said Iryna.

Oleksandr, a social worker who also participated in the event, noted that he received important answers to his questions.

“It often happens that discrimination against people with disabilities, especially among IDPs, is not obvious, but it does exist. Therefore, it is important to know in what forms it manifests itself. It was also useful to learn what can be done to prevent discrimination or how to help a person subjected to such actions,” said a training participant. 

The event will also be held in other regions of Ukraine that are envisaged by the project. In total, the “United Voices in Action” program is being implemented in 18 regions. “United Voices in Action” is a program that empowers internally displaced persons to become leaders in community cohesion, lead support structures, increase their resilience, and contribute to Ukraine’s national recovery.

 IDPs can also take advantage of free legal advice by completing a form.

This article was made possible as part of the United Voices in Action program, implemented by the international organization IREX together with the Ukrainian Charity Foundation “Stabilization Support Services” and with the support of the U.S. Department of State. The content is the sole responsibility of the Charity Foundation “Stabilization Support Services” and does not necessarily reflect the views of IREX or the US Department of State.

Запис Training on counteracting discrimination against people with disabilities in the context of internal displacement held in Cherkasy спершу з'явиться на United Voices in Action.

This initiative was part of the “United Voices in Action” program, implemented by the international organization IREX in collaboration with the Charity Foundation “Stabilization Support Services”, with support from the US Department of State.

Domestic violence has long been a significant concern, and its severity has escalated with the onset of the full-scale war. Such violence manifests not only in physical or sexual forms but also in psychological and economic abuse. Internally displaced persons remain a particularly vulnerable group in this context. Finding themselves in unfamiliar social environments, they are often forced to live temporarily with relatives or acquaintances, frequently under conditions of limited space and economic dependency. In such situations, the likelihood of emotional stress, conflict, and exploitation by those controlling housing or resources is significantly increased.

 “After the COVID-19 pandemic, when women and men were confined to their homes for extended periods, tensions escalated. Now, during wartime, the situation has deteriorated further. That is why this topic remains incredibly relevant,” said Olena Makarevych, head of the IDP Council at the Volochysk Executive Committee.

 She emphasised the importance of women understanding their rights and breaking free from domestic violence. During the training, organisers dispelled common myths, including: “There is no sexual violence in marriage”, “If he beats you, he loves you”, “You must endure it for the sake of your children”. Participants learned:

●  about the rights of victims of domestic violence;

●  how to protect themselves and their children in the context of internal displacement;

●  how to plan personal safety and safeguarding loved ones;

●  where to seek assistance when experiencing domestic violence during displacement.

Participants had the opportunity not only to receive theoretical information but also to work in group sessions and analyse practical examples to determine whether specific situations can be qualified as violence, who the victim is, and how to proceed.

 Domestic violence is a crime. Its defining features include violations of the victim’s rights, repeated occurrences, intentional actions by the abuser, and the abuser’s sense of superiority (whether physical, psychological, or economic).

Victims are entitled to comprehensive information about their rights, as well as access to social services, medical care, and psychological assistance. The Law of Ukraine On Preventing and Combating Domestic Violence guarantees these protections.

“It is crucial to stress that no form of domestic violence is acceptable. Men, too, can be victims of domestic violence,” said trainer Serhii Yatskovskyi.

 “When victims share their experiences of violence, believe them. You may be the first, and possibly the only, person they confide in. Believe them and support their decisions without judgment,” the organisers urged.

This training will also be held in other oblasts of Ukraine within the scope of the project. Overall, the “United Voices in Action” program is being implemented in 18 oblasts. It provides IDPs with the opportunity to become community cohesion leaders, head support structures, enhance their resilience, and contribute to Ukraine’s national recovery. IDPs can also take advantage of free legal advice by filling out the form.

This article was made possible as part of the United Voices in Action program, implemented by the international organization IREX together with the Ukrainian Charity Foundation “Stabilization Support Services” and with the support of the U.S. Department of State. The content is the sole responsibility of the Charity Foundation “Stabilization Support Services” and does not necessarily reflect the views of IREX or the US Department of State.

Запис Training on Combating Domestic Violence Held in Khmelnytska Oblast спершу з'явиться на United Voices in Action.

Coverage of IDPs in the Media: Research 

Since 2016, when  IREX began implementing programs with a specific focus on internally displaced persons (IDPs), program research has revealed that Ukrainian media tend to publish materials that negatively portray IDPs. This tendency further amplifies destabilizing factors and contributes to the formation of negative stereotypes about IDPs. 

Recognizing the critical role that media plays in shaping and mobilizing public opinion, IREX, in collaboration with the Media Development Foundation, published the “Media Research on Hate Speech and Stereotypes Regarding IDPs” report. Using the Media Content Analysis Tool (MCAT) – an IREX tool for media content analysis, the report analyzes media coverage of IDPs and topics related to internal displacement as a results of Russia’s invasion. The research, conducted from December 2022 to January 2023, analyzed  231 publications from regional media across 25 communities.  

The results show that 57.1% of the analyzed materials in the sample have the potential to be beneficial for IDPs. The designation beneficial could include news announcements or articles that provide information on where IDPs can seek assistance for specific issues, or contact details of organizations offering consultation or support. At the same time, regional media content is oriented towards information that comes from government authorities and state structures at the local and national levels (52.9% of the sample), with only 12% comprising original materials. 

Among the analyzed materials, there is a tendency to depict IDPs as destitute, unfortunate individuals who had to flee from the war. This portrayal is shaped by the following factors: 

Tone of the Materials: Expression of feelings of pity and sympathy towards IDPs. 

Insufficient Individual Stories of IDPs: Only 43 publications (18.6%) out of 231 highlight personal stories, thoughts, and comments from IDPs. The rest consist of factual information, reprinted press releases, and news announcements. 

Another key finding was that media outlets tend to promote general stereotypes that exist around IDPs. During the analysis, the following stereotypes regarding IDPs were identified: 

Prompting Accusations of Violations Related to the War: Specifically, accusations of evading military duties and attempts of illegal border crossing, dissemination of propaganda, and support of Russian aggression against Ukraine. Such publications often involve implicit statements potentially creating a negative image of IDPs and prompting public perceptions that IDPs are to blame for the onset of the war. 

Gender Stereotypes: Stories about women among IDPs, especially those with children, tend to be portrayed differently from stories about male IDPs. The latter are more likely to be framed within a criminal context, particularly regarding evasion from military service. 

Portrayal of IDPs as a Threat to Freedom, Health, and Life: Although not directly indicating the category of IDPs, there is stigmatization on the basis of geographical origin. For instance, during the analysis, a news item was found about a resident of Dnipro who ‘opened fire in the center of Lviv.’ This kind of reporting indirectly associates IDPs with threats to public safety, health, and life. 

Course on Sensitive Journalism 

As a result of this research, IREX developed an educational course on sensitive journalism titled “Focus on the Human: Media’s Work with Sensitive Topics”. The course enhances the skills of media representatives in dealing with sensitive topics, avoiding stereotypes and hostile language regarding IDPs, and improving the objectivity and quality of content related to IDPs. 

The course was developed by experienced media experts, human rights activists, and psychotherapists with expertise in working with individuals who have experienced traumatic events due to war. In total, 204 individuals joined the course, delving into the theme of internal displacement in Ukraine and learning how to work with adults and children who have experienced traumatic events such as war, loss of home and loved ones, sexual violence, captivity, and torture. Participants also learned how to react appropriately to the emotions of the subjects in journalistic materials and preserve their psychological well-being when dealing with sensitive topics. A specific focus was placed on working with internally displaced persons. It highlighted how to talk to and about IDPs, debunk stereotypes, and establish strong ties between IDPs and host communities with the help of media coverage. Additionally, participants had the opportunity to receive individual consultations with experts on how to write articles and produce materials on sensitive topics. 

“I really liked that there were very narrowly focused and professional speakers, very specific topics, which is very rare to see in such short-term courses. Usually, you need to take a one-year course, and if you are lucky, there will be maybe one or two lectures that will provide you with such knowledge and skills. Secondly, as an editor, I would teach this course to all the journalists, right in journalism schools, because you paid a lot of attention to tonality, language, and appropriate terminology, emphasizing what is legally and ethically correct or what is not – all these things are very useful. The lecture on interviewing children was very useful for me personally.”

Oleksandra, Kyiv-based freelance journalist with 17 years of experience working.

A Practical Guide to Sensitive Journalism 

In addition to the training course, IREX has developed a practical guide on sensitive journalism, compiling the research findings and insights from the course. The guide targets  media professionals working with internally displaced persons (IDPs) and other groups that have experienced traumatic events due to war and is titled ‘Focus on the Individual: Media Work with Sensitive Topics.’ 

This guide provides concise yet practical information and tips on how to work with and write about adults and children who have undergone traumatic events such as the war, loss of home and loved ones, sexual violence, captivity, and torture. Special attention is given to journalists’ work with internally displaced people. The guide covers ethical aspects of working with sensitive topics and ways to take care of one’s mental health while dealing with those who have experienced traumatic events. The guide also includes the full results of the research on ‘“Media Research on Hate Speech and Stereotypes Regarding IDPs”. 

To obtain the guide, please following the link.

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Overall, legal professionals examined 193 legal and regulatory acts across 25 communities in 15 oblasts of Ukraine. These include community statutes, programs, and decisions regarding the social protection of specific citizen categories, notably IDPs. The researchers aimed to find out whether IDPs faced discrimination in terms of participation in local decision-making, recognition as members of host communities, and access to local social support.

In Kyivska Oblast, the experts analyzed situations in the Kyivska, Obukhivska, and Bilotserkivska communities.

“The research was conducted in multiple phases. Initially, lawyers analyzed documents published on official websites and responses to inquiries. Subsequently, expert interviews were conducted with local authorities in three communities,” said Olesia Liashchuk, the regional coordinator for the United Voices in Action program in Kyivska Oblast.

The study revealed that displaced individuals have limited opportunities to participate in local decision-making.

“For instance, the Kyiv statute specifies that only members of the city’s territorial community can participate in general meetings, initiate consideration of any local issues in the Council, and establish local self-organization bodies. However, the statute does not clearly define the criteria determining membership in Kyiv’s territorial community,” noted Nataliya Chuyko, legal adviser of the Charity Foundation “Stabilization Support Services”.

Some statutes, like the Obukhiv one, define IDP membership within the territorial community. However, only those with registered residency within the community’s territory are entitled to participate in local decision-making.

Tayia Avram, an analyst and lawyer from the Donbas SOS NGO, emphasized the significance of this study, especially for human rights defenders.

“Everyone has the right to receive equal assistance, but in practice, there are barriers. This research offers a comprehensive understanding of where human rights activists can assist the displaced and how local authorities can improve the situation. I also appreciated examples of successful practices that can be considered when developing local regulations,” Tayia Avram pointed out.

As for positive findings, currently, IDP Councils have been established in two Kyiv districts, Obolonskyi and Darnytskyi, as well as in Obukhiv, serving as self-governance bodies for IDPs. The researchers did not identify any discrimination in accessing social services. However, in the Kyivska and Obukhivska communities, there are no targeted social support programs intended specifically for IDPs. In contrast, the Bilotserkivska community has a distinct support program for the displaced, offering psychological support, retraining, as well as rehabilitation services for people with disabilities.

Nadiya Stratiy, a member of the initiative group for the establishment of an IDP Council in Bila Tserkva, believes that the study will serve as a roadmap for the future Council’s work.

“The presentation has gathered and consolidated data about territorial communities, including Bilotserkivska. There’s an analysis of local regulations and targeted programs. Experts’ observations can be taken into account and utilized in the IDP Council’s future operations,” Nadiya Stratiy emphasized.The researchers provided recommendations for local authorities on refining local policies and programs to improve the lives of IDPs in the communities. Specifically, they suggest making amendments to community statutes, local targeted programs, and regulations that determine the procedures to access benefits and assistance for specific categories of citizens.

Запис Limited Rights and Privileges: A Large-Scale Study on the Life of IDPs in New Communities Presented in Kyiv спершу з'явиться на United Voices in Action.

The event was held as part of the United Voices in Action program, implemented by the international organization IREX together with the Ukrainian Charity Foundation “Stabilization Support Services” and with the support of the U.S. Department of State. 

The play Boomerang, which was shown in Kyiv, tells the story of an IDP from Kharkiv. In 2014, she refused to rent an apartment to a woman with children when she found out that the family was displaced from Luhansk. In 2022, the protagonist herself had to flee the war and seek refuge. In her new community, she experienced firsthand the prejudice of some landlords toward IDPs. The protagonist of the play, despite the difficulties, tries to give education to her children but faces distrust, indifference, and misunderstanding from the locals.

Matt Johnson, Stabilization Advisor at the U.S. Embassy in Ukraine has attended the event and provided closing remarks stating: 

“Thanks to such initiatives, I can now report on IDP issues in Ukraine not only at the diplomatic level but also in everyday life, sharing with my family members and close circle what IDPs in Ukraine are going through and the difficulties they face. Such activities are extremely important. Through physical involvement in the performance, it is possible to feel and understand their experiences, to feel what they go through every day, and why it is worth supporting and uniting our efforts to promote the faster integration of IDPs and stabilize the situation in Ukraine. I thank the actresses for their strength and courage to relive this experience once again”. 

Olesia Liashuk, regional coordinator of the United Voices in Action program in Kyiv, said that the play not only evoked emotions in the audience but also encouraged them to seek solutions. The audience discussed the needs and expectations, next steps, and prospects of both IDPs in the region and the community itself.

“The issue of integration and adaptation of internally displaced persons is not new to Ukraine. We have been hearing about the need to establish communication between IDPs and the community since 2014. At the same time, the massive displacement due to the full-scale invasion has brought the problem to a new level. Forum Theater events are a new way of communication that allows the audience to join an interactive search for solutions on a specific topic,” said Ms. Liashuk.

Olesya Lyashuk is convinced that IDPs in new communities can be an effective resource, not a burden. This opinion is shared by Nadiya Stratiy, a member of the initiative group of the IDP Council in Bila Tserkva.

“At the city level, it is difficult to explain that IDPs who come from different regions are talented people: good drivers, doctors, bakers, and highly specialized professionals. And these people, when they adapt psychologically, want to and can work, but they don’t know how to make it happen,” said Ms. Nadiya.

IDPs in Ukraine urgently need support. Marina Matveichuk, one of the participants of the Forum Theater performance and a member of the IDP Council at the Zhytomyrska Oblast State (Military) Administration, is certain of this. If people do not receive it here, they will most likely go abroad.

“IDPs are potential migrants. If people do not feel comfortable in their place of temporary residence, they will go to another country: Poland, or Germany, where they will receive help, so they will not return here. If we claim that we want young, active people who work to stay here, we need to help them psychologically and give them the opportunity to feel needed.”

The majority agreed that in order to make changes for the better, it is necessary to enlist the support of local authorities. For example, Collective Centers for IDPs mostly house vulnerable people: pensioners, single mothers with children, and others. We need to help them in a targeted way because they are also members of this community now.

Nataliya Teslyk, project coordinator of the United Voices in Action program, said that similar events were held in 15 oblasts of Ukraine:

“It is difficult for IDPs to integrate into a new community, especially for families with children. They have to think first and foremost about the safety and well-being of their children. Finding housing and setting up a life in difficult conditions is a big problem. That is why they need real support. It is crucial for Ukrainians to unite and not to divide into IDPs and local community members.”

It’s crucial for the audience to realize, following the performance, their potential to come together and their mutual concerns. Notably, Kyiv alone is home to almost 250 thousand officially registered internally displaced persons.

Запис IDP Adaptation in New Communities: Regional Forum Theater Performance Held in Kyiv спершу з'явиться на United Voices in Action.

As a result of Russia’s invasion, there are now more than 5.1 million internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Ukraine. Many of them are young people who have had to leave their homes and friends behind and now face the challenges of integrating into a new community.  

The goal of the United Voices in Action (VIA) program is to strengthen social cohesion between IDPs and receiving community members, and highlight the important role that teenagers can play in this process. In pursuit of this goal, VIA is starting a new initiative supporting youth to develop and implement ideas for enhancing social cohesion in their communities by engaging them in joint projects involving both IDPs and locals. Specifically, VIA has recruited and trained 14 Teen Leads who will mentor Teen Teams through the project development and implementation process to both enhance social cohesion and develop teenagers’ capacity for project management. 

VIA Recruits and Trains Teen Leads 

As a first step in its initiative to support IDP teenagers, VIA has recruited and begun collaborating with 14 ambitious and dedicated Teen Leads in 14 hromadas (Cherkasy, Ivano-Frankivsk, Kamianets-Podilskyi, Khmelnytskyi, Kremenchuk, Kryvyi Rih, Kyiv, Lutsk, Lviv, Mukachevo, Poltava, Ternopil, Uman, and Zhytomyr). These Teen Leads will provide comprehensive support to groups of teens in their communities to develop and implement social cohesion projects to bring together IDPs and receiving community members. 

From September 10-13, 2023, VIA engaged the Teen Leads in an introductory training to build their capacity and prepare them for working with the Teen Teams. During the training, the Teen Leads explored methods for building interpersonal connections; learned about design thinking methodologies and community social cohesion; discussed challenges and opportunities on the path to unity and IDP integration in their communities; identified their own priorities for participation in the program; learned how to develop and implement projects in their communities; and acquired empathy, analysis, and teamwork skills. 

On the last day of the training, Matt Johnson, Stabilization Advisor at the U.S. Embassy in Ukraine, visited the Teen Leads. Training participants had the opportunity to share their impressions of the training, plans for the future, and questions about U.S. support for IDP integration in Ukraine. 

Following his engagement with the Teen Leads, Mr. Johnson emphasized his support for their endeavors, saying

“Thank you all for participating. I was positively surprised by your thoughts on working with teenagers. Working with teenagers is rewarding, even when you occasionally encounter certain challenges.” 

Teen Leads Will Work with Teen Teams to Implement Social Cohesion Projects 

The Teen Leads trained through the VIA program will apply their new skills through work with Teen Teams composed of both IDPs and receiving community members. Working together, these teenagers will generate ideas for enhancing social cohesion and learn how to turn these ideas into actionable projects. Once the Teen Teams have crafted their project ideas, they will have the opportunity to receive funding from the VIA program to implement the projects in their communities. 

Currently, VIA has launched an open call for applications to join the Teen Teams in 14 communities. The application period will run until October 8, 2023. 

Запис VIA Program Launches New Initiative Working with Teenagers  спершу з'явиться на United Voices in Action.