In the Zakarpattia region, important step-by-step algorithms have been developed for women and girls who have experienced gender-based violence. The public organization CAHR “VESTED”, in partnership with the Department of Social Protection of the Population of Zakarpattia Oblast State Administration and with the participation of the “1325” coalition, has completed the development of roadmaps for assistance that cover all districts of the region. This is the first comprehensive tool in the region, created not only for responding to crisis situations but also for preventing violence, informing the community, and increasing the safety of women, children, and families.
Why was there a need for roadmaps?
Mariia Mendzhul, head of CAHR «VESTED», said: «Today's realities show that gender-based violence remains a serious problem that requires a systematic approach and accessible information. People who face violence often do not know where to turn, how to act correctly, or how to protect themselves and their children. It is especially difficult to do this in rural communities, where services are far apart and access to information is limited. That is why the KAPL “VESTED” team carried out extensive preparatory work: analysis of service providers in each community; checking work schedules and current contacts; studying the actual route that a victim can take - from the first call to receiving social, legal, or psychological support. The result of this work was detailed maps that take into account the specifics of each district.»
Each roadmap includes:
Step-by-step algorithm of actions for victims:
- Awareness of violence - the first and key step
For those who doubt or are afraid to take the first step, contacts for free and confidential hotlines are provided.
- Algorithm of actions in a crisis situation (leave the room where there are potentially dangerous objects; if possible, leave the premises; keep your phone, documents, keys with you; agree with neighbors or friends on a “code word” that will signal danger; in case of a real threat, call 102).
- Fact-finding - the basis for legal protection (the map explains what photos and videos should be saved; how to properly keep a diary of events; what messages or screenshots may be important; why evidence should be stored in a cloud service or with a trusted person. This is especially relevant for women who want to obtain a restraining or protective order).
- Legal protection: what every victim needs to know (the roadmap describes in a separate block how the protection system works in Ukraine).
- “Emergency bag” and safe exit plan (one of the most practical sections - advice on what to take with you in case of urgent evacuation: documents; money; necessary medicines; change of clothes; children's items; contacts of services and important people).
In addition, relevant contacts for seeking assistance are provided for each district (contacts for mobile brigades; support centers; child welfare services; social protection departments; day centers for socio-psychological assistance, national and regional hotlines).
The telephone hotline operates on an ongoing basis – FREE and CONFIDENTIAL. Call in all cases when help and consultation are needed: 066 415 90 18!
About the implementer
Carpathian Agency of Human Rights “Vested” is a human rights organization from Zakarpattia that works at the intersection of human rights, social mobilization, and access to justice. The organization has many years of experience working with vulnerable groups, including Roma communities and IDPs, and actively implements inclusive formats of assistance and education.
About the fund
The UN Trust Fund to End Violence against Women (UN Trust Fund) — is the only global grant-making mechanism exclusively dedicated to addressing all forms of violence against women and girls at local, national, and regional levels. To date, the Fund has supported 609 organizations in 140 countries and territories.
This publication was prepared with the financial support of the UN Trust Fund to End Violence against Women. However, the views expressed and the content presented do not reflect the official position or endorsement of the United Nations.