In Ternopil, amateur actors performed a Forum Theater play for IDPs and local residents, representatives of NGOs, charities, and local authorities. The Forum Theater is a unique format that provides for direct audience involvement. Thanks to this, people with different backgrounds often find unconventional solutions to the problems discussed in the play. 

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

The play “Choice” presented in Ternopil explored what to do next, where to go, and how to rebuild one’s life during the war. During the performance, the participants discussed important issues of integration and real problems of IDP families in new communities, said Yana Shkuratova, the regional coordinator of the United Voices in Action program in Ternopilska Oblast:

“The Forum Theater serves as a potent advocacy tool, drawing together government representatives, NGOs, and compassionate individuals to discuss the integration of IDPs into local communities. Beyond its advocacy potential, it offers a therapeutic avenue for the IDPs. This becomes a platform for them to voice their feelings, release pent-up emotions, and experience solidarity with fellow attendees. The importance of such events is particularly high today.”

This performance wasn’t solely about supporting IDPs in their new communities; it emphasized the mutual acceptance between the IDPs and their host communities. The depth of emotion resonated with all attendees, with some even moving to tears. “Events like these help individuals process their painful pasts, release entrenched negativity, and embrace new beginnings,” remarked Oksana Shliusar, the Development Director of the NGO “TMZHK “Revival of the Nation.”

“When the full-scale invasion began,” Oksana shared, “I worked as an operator at the 527 hotline. The distress and uncertainty in the voices of callers from various countries will forever stay with me. Recognizing the importance of security is pivotal in life decision-making.”

Local volunteer Ms. Viktoriya added that the play’s narrative went beyond just securing shelter. She noted, “Life is fraught with risks regardless of the choices we make. As emphasized in the performance, a mother’s predominant concern is the well-being of her child, influencing each decision in unfamiliar terrains.”

Nataliya Zarytska, overseeing the Department of International Economic Cooperation and Investment Projects at the Ternopilska Oblast Military Administration, emphasized the need for well-structured plans and programs for host communities. She stated, “This isn’t merely about relocation. It’s about integrating those traumatized by war. Our focus is to make Ukrainians feel at home. We refer to them not as ‘IDPs’ but as new residents of Ternopil. While initially addressing immediate humanitarian needs was the priority, we now must strategize holistically for IDP integration.”

At its core, IDPs seek understanding and support. Initiatives like the Forum Theater provide a conducive environment for open conversations, letting all attendees actively participate. The unique experiences of vulnerability often shared by IDPs can’t be captured in formal reports. Alla Melnychuk, the moderator at the Forum Theater event in Ternopil, stresses that the insights gathered during such events should be actioned upon, with the IDP Council in Ternopilska Oblast taking the lead. 

“For me, it was important to hear about the importance of coordination and joint activities in the discussions. Authorities, civic activists, IDPs, the community, utility companies, opinion leaders. Only together can we bring the greatest benefit,” said Alla.

The Ternopil Forum Theater event offered IDPs not just a communication platform but also facilitated interactions with a wider audience. The primary takeaway? A collective understanding of mutual concern and the possibility of collaboration towards shared objectives. The overarching mission of the United Voices in Action program is to aid IDPs across various regions, fostering communication between displaced individuals, authorities, and proactive citizens.

As a reminder, about 87,000 internally displaced persons are officially registered in Ternopilska Oblast alone.