A training session titled “Domestic Violence: How to Counteract and Get Protection in the Context of Forced Displacement” took place in Volochysk, Khmelnytska oblast. The event was attended by women, including those who had been forced to leave their homes due to the war and obtain the IDP certificates.

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.