In the midst of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, a profound shift is occurring as women courageously begin to speak out about their experiences of sexual violence inflicted by occupying forces. In the Kherson region, a 77-year-old former teacher named Liudmyla has taken a pivotal role in this movement, recounting her own harrowing ordeal of assault during the Russian occupation.
"What I went through,” Liudmyla shared at a village meeting, “I was beaten, I was raped, but I am still living thanks to these people.” She has been joined by fellow survivors Tetyana, 61, and Alisa Kovalenko, 37, who have collaborated to raise awareness about the often-hidden issue of sexual violence in the context of war. Their efforts have sparked discussions among women across villages, shining a light on a painful and pervasive issue that has, until now, largely remained unaddressed.
Despite societal stigma and fear of judgment, these brave women are committed to breaking the silence. Experts estimate that thousands of women may have experienced assault during the conflict, yet only 344 documented cases have been registered, highlighting the barriers that women face in coming forward in the conservative, deeply religious landscape of rural Ukraine.
Among the registered cases, prosecutors have noted that 220 women reported sexual violence, including 16 minors. These numbers merely scratch the surface of the reality, as cultural attitudes toward sexual assault in Ukraine often compel survivors to remain silent rather than risk ostracism or shame.
Through their inspiring efforts, Liudmyla and her companions stand as beacons of hope, challenging stigma and offering solidarity to fellow survivors. Their initiative is not only bringing awareness but also empowering women to reclaim their narratives, indicating a potential movement toward healing and societal change in the wake of war.
