In the midst of the ongoing war, a group of Ukrainian women in the Kherson region is silently challenging the oppressive stigma surrounding sexual violence as they begin to share their harrowing experiences. Led by a courageous 77-year-old former teacher named Liudmyla, survivors are creating a movement to bring attention to the widespread sexual assault committed by Russian soldiers.
During village meetings, Liudmyla and fellow survivors, such as Tetyana, 61, and Alisa Kovalenko, 37, recount their painful experiences to provide support and solidarity to others. Despite societal norms that discourage discussing sexual assault, prompting most to remain silent, these women are determined to spark change. Liudmyla's public disclosure of her ordeal, which includes being beaten and raped, serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing struggles faced by many.
Since Russia's invasion in February 2022, over 344 cases of conflict-related sexual violence have been recorded by prosecutors in Ukraine, with a significant portion of the victims being women and underage girls. As the conversation around these issues begins to evolve due to the efforts of brave survivors, there is hope that more women will find the courage to speak out and seek justice.
