The work to combat domestic violence during the war not only did not lose its relevance, but also gained greater importance, due to the large number of cases of sexual violence by the enemy against Ukrainian citizens, both women and men.
On this occasion, a meeting was held in Odesa with journalists of representatives of public organizations, the police and the authorities to advocate the topic of prevention of gender-based violence.
The organizer of the event, head of the public movement "Vira Nadiya Lyubov" Tetyana Semikop said that her movement is a recognized leader in civil society in the prevention and eradication of gender-based violence and has been making great efforts in this field for many years.
"Today's realities in Ukraine require a change in approach to this extremely important issue. The international marathon "16 days against violence" is taking place in our country again, and this year, during the war, it has become even more relevant, because sexual violence during the war is, unfortunately, the reality in which we live. It is very important that journalists, bloggers and opinion leaders cover and talk about these topics, and victims of violence are not left alone with their problems," said Tetiana Semikop.
Sociologist of the "Pulse" Center Olena Knyazeva, in turn, noted that, according to sociological research and polls, moods in society have changed, and thanks to the work of such public organizations and meetings, it is possible to talk about an important problem of society out loud.
"A lot of work to support victims is done at the local level. Relevant legislative initiatives and national plans are being developed at the state level. It is important to understand the problem, to be armed in order to provide assistance to the victims and create conditions primarily for prevention. You need to talk about it and talk out loud. Unfortunately, there is a lack of experts on this issue in the country, there is not enough reliable data, but work is underway and we are moving in the right direction," said Olena Knyazeva.
Oleksandr Filyaev, the host of the "Pershiy Miskyi" television and radio company, who was also present at the meeting, has been hosting the "Red Border" TV project for many years. And precisely at the level of the regional mass media, with various specialists, representatives of law enforcement structures, the public sector and local authorities, he talks about the problem of gender-based and domestic violence.
"Our Red Border project aims to convey to society that there is no need to remain silent. This problem did not appear yesterday and will not disappear tomorrow, but only by working with the whole society, women, men and even children, we will be able to change the situation for the better," Oleksandr Filyaev added.
The organizer of the event, Tetiana Semikop, noted that despite the war, the work continues and has high support at the international level.
