Results of sociological study among journalists on covering sexual violence in wartime being presented in Kyiv

The National Union of Journalists of Ukraine (NUJU) invites you to participate in the discussion of the results of a sociological study called Covering CRSV [Conflict-Related Sexual Violence].

The research was conducted in the format of a focus group in February 2024. The expert on conducting the Covering CRSV focus group is Anastasia Bastrakova, the head of the qualitative research department of the Kyiv International Institute of Sociology (KIIS) and a candidate in psychological sciences.

In the last ten years of russia’s war in Ukraine, sexual violence became a method of intimidation of the local population, repression of dissenters, weakening of Ukrainian society, pressure, and blackmail. The CRSV issue has become extremely relevant. At the same time, most Ukrainian media either avoid difficult and sensitive topics or cover them in an inappropriate manner. The problems experienced by the survivors are not presented in the media, which hinders social integration and deepens the stigmatization of these people.

In 2023-2024, the NUJU held four training events called Covering CRSV: What Journalists Need To Know? in different regions of Ukraine: Lviv, Zaporizhzhia, Dnipro, and Kyiv. We invite journalists, public figures, and experts to learn more about the willingness of journalists to cover a sensitive topic and about tips for proper coverage of the SNPK.

Topics to be raised during the press conference:

• The subject of sexual violence becomes relevant in the conditions of war. Why do we need to talk about it?
• CRSV types and experience of overcoming the consequences in other countries.
• Conversation with survivors of sexual violence.
• Ethical and legal aspects that journalists should consider when working with the topic.
• State institutions, international organizations, and public associations that help CRSV
• Mental health of journalists working with the topic.

The press conference will take place in Kyiv on Wednesday, March 27. It starts at 12 p.m.

Speakers:

• Lina Kushch, the NUJU First Secretary;
• Liudmyla Huseinova, a human rights defender, citizen journalist, former political prisoner, communications director of the SEMA Ukraine NGO, and laureate of the National Human Rights Award;
• Mariya Dmitrieva, a women’s rights coach.

Each participant will receive a brochure with basic information, materials, and recommendations for proper coverage of the CRSV topic.

Registration continues until March 26, 2024 (until 4 p.m.) via the link:

https://forms.gle/AaScSadmN5USD3x28

Participants will receive a confirmation letter indicating the exact time and place of the event.

Contacts for your questions:

Valeriya Parkhomenko, the project assistant

Email: j.solidarity.c@gmail.com

The event is being held as part of the project Promoting Social Integration Of CRSV Survivors And Breaking Stigma Chains, which is being implemented by the NUJU with the support of the Mukwege Foundation.