The team of the Secretariat of the National Assembly of Persons with Disabilities of Ukraine took part in the training «Prevention of Sexual Exploitation and Abuse. Response and Counteraction», organized by the WHO Office in Ukraine. The course, known by the acronym PRSEAH (Prevention and Response to Sexual Abuse and Harassment), is aimed at preventing cases of abuse by humanitarian workers during crisis situations.
The training was targeted at healthcare professionals, civil society workers and all those involved in the humanitarian response in Ukraine. Participants gained practical knowledge on combating sexual exploitation, victim support mechanisms and reporting incidents in emergencies.
Simulation exercises were used during the training to help participants better understand the process of identifying crimes related to sexual exploitation and abuse, as well as ways to help victims. The concepts of SEA (sexual exploitation and abuse) according to international humanitarian standards, as well as the risks and consequences of these phenomena in crisis situations were discussed separately.
Participants learned about international legal conventions ratified by Ukraine and their connection to gender issues and gender-based violence, including sexual exploitation. They also discussed how the war in Ukraine has exacerbated the problem of sexual abuse and increased the risks for vulnerable groups.
Particular attention was paid to the principles of victim support based on safety, confidentiality, respect and non-discrimination. Participants also learned about reporting mechanisms and ways to seek advice in case of difficulties.
After completing the training, the participants took a test, the successful completion of which allowed them to receive certificates of completion.
