OSCE trains young Ukrainian psychologists and social workers to provide comprehensive assistance to survivors of gender-based violence

In times of war, domestic violence can escalate, leaving vulnerable individuals trapped in fear and abuse. Amid the chaos and uncertainty, the safety and well-being of individuals, especially women and children, are often compromised. The overlapping traumas of war-related violence and domestic abuse create a deeply distressing and overwhelming environment for vulnerable individuals. With that in mind, it is hard to overestimate the value of those who provide assistance to people trying to recover from gender-based violence – psychologists and social workers. It is also important that young professionals who only make first steps on this difficult but very important walk of life get a lot of support – in building the necessary skills and receiving due recognition and encouragement. 

OSCE-supported Youth Camp for young social workers and psychologists provided an opportunity for 26 participants to dive into four days of interactive training, coaching and discussions under the guidance of the experts in the field of combating gender-based violence. The event, organized on 25-29 July in Ivano-Frankivsk oblast, focused on helping participants to better understand both the phenomenon of domestic violence and the full range of tools and resources available in Ukraine to assist the survivors. Some cases need more focus on psychological rehabilitation, for others there’s a need to provide social support, including temporary shelter and assistance with employment; there are also cases that require psychological correction work with perpetrators.

Being equipped with such multidisciplinary approach will enable the young professionals to consider and provide comprehensive and co-ordinated assistance responding to the diverse needs of people seeking help. The expertise and dedication hold the potential to significantly improve the lives of those affected by domestic violence during wartime in Ukraine.

The Youth Camp was organized by the OSCE Secretariat Extra-Budgetary Support Programme for Ukraine together with the Ministry of Social Policy of Ukraine within a project implemented with financial support from donors, full list of which is available here.