Reparations for Victims of Sexual Violence During Wartime
The Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine has approved a mechanism for urgent reparations for individuals who suffered sexual violence during the war. Starting now, Ukrainians who endured this horrific experience can receive a one-time payment of €3,000. Ukraine’s Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko announced the decision on Telegram.
Eligible for assistance are direct victims, as well as children born as a result of such crimes. The payments will be funded through contributions from international partners and donors. Importantly, this compensation is independent of other social programs—the €3,000 will not affect a person’s eligibility for subsidies, benefits, or any other state aid.
Process for Claiming Reparations
A special commission under the Ministry of Social Policy, Family, and Unity will review applications for reparations. According to the Office of the Prosecutor General, 398 confirmed cases of conflict-related sexual violence have been recorded in Ukraine since the start of the full-scale invasion. Among the victims are 248 women and 150 men.
“The entire process is designed to ensure confidentiality, respect for human dignity, and to avoid re-traumatization.”
Yulia Svyrydenko
Svyrydenko also stated: “Russia is using sexual violence as yet another weapon against our people. This is a grave war crime. The state will do everything possible to ensure Russia faces international accountability, and that citizens affected by these crimes receive full reparations.”
This initiative marks a significant step in supporting survivors of sexual violence resulting from the war. It not only provides financial aid to victims but also underscores the severity of using sexual violence as a weapon in conflict. The implementation of this reparations mechanism will help compensate for harm while raising public awareness about the issue and the need to protect victims’ rights.
As the situation in Ukraine evolves, the plight of individuals affected by the conflict continues to receive attention. Recently, four Ukrainian teenagers were successfully brought back from Russian-occupied territory, highlighting ongoing efforts to support those impacted by the war. This development underscores the importance of initiatives aimed at aiding victims, including the newly approved reparations for survivors of wartime sexual violence. To learn more about this recent rescue operation and its implications, visit the details of the teenagers' return.