The full-scale invasion of Ukraine by russia has led to significant changes in the country’s socio-economic conditions, exacerbating gender inequalities and creating new challenges for women and vulnerable groups. The war has also contributed to a rise in gender-based violence (GBV) cases and has limited survivors' access to necessary assistance due to social transformations and difficulties in obtaining essential services. Internal displacement, stress, and social isolation have increased risks for women and girls, making them more vulnerable to violence, exploitation, and discrimination. Economic shifts and additional caregiving responsibilities have restricted women’s opportunities to adapt to new circumstances, increasing the psychological and financial pressure on them.
The scale of the problem is confirmed by the growing number of reported GBV cases and the financial vulnerability of women, many of whom have become sole providers for their families. This situation requires a comprehensive approach to violence prevention and survivor support.
Key Findings
The study conducted by HIAS with the support of NGO Girls demonstrates that the war in Ukraine has significantly intensified socio-economic, psychological, and security challenges, particularly for women and girls. One of the most critical threats facing all residents of Ukraine is the constant fear for life and health due to the ongoing security crisis. Daily missile strikes, drone attacks, ballistic threats, as well as disruptions in electricity, water supply, and means of communication, have become routine challenges for residents of the studied hromadas.
Beyond the immediate security risks, the war has caused other problems. Job losses, lack of employment opportunities, limited chances for vocational trainings, significant declines in financial stability, and the mobilization of men—leaving women to care for children or mobility-impaired relatives — have placed many women in complete economic dependence on their partners and international or state aid. Others have been forced to become the sole breadwinners for their families. The situation is especially dire for those in rural areas, where access to social and medical services is extremely limited. The most vulnerable groups include internally displaced persons (IDPs), single mothers, women with disabilities, and ethnic minorities.
In addition to physical dangers, the war has had a severe impact on the psychological well-being of the population. Chronic stress, anxiety, depression, apathy, and a sense of hopelessness and fear about the future are widespread. Youth who have been forced into remote learning suffer from isolation and educational gaps, affecting their confidence in the future. The persistent background stress makes it harder for people to cope with various situations, leading to increased interpersonal and domestic conflicts. Women report feeling threatened not only by military personnel but also by civilian men, who, in turn, experience severe stress and pressure due to the war. Consequently, there is a strong demand for psychological support services for men.
One of the most alarming consequences of the war has been a sharp increase in gender-based violence. Persistent stress, fear for survival, economic instability, alcohol abuse among men, and overall social isolation have led to a rise in the number of family disputes. Many women do not seek help due to fear of community judgment, lack of trust in law enforcement, or simply not knowing where to seek help. The absence of crisis centers in small towns and villages worsens the situation, while the shortage of lawyers and psychologists makes access to help nearly impossible. The situation is particularly critical for Roma women, who face double discrimination—both from society and within their own communities.
Addressing these problems requires a comprehensive approach. Expanding access to crisis centers and shelters, creating mobile support teams, implementing special economic support programs for women, job placement and retraining programs, and increasing the availability of free psychological services could significantly improve the situation. Additionally, large-scale awareness campaigns are needed to break societal stereotypes about GBV, promote zero tolerance for violence and perpetrators, raise awareness about available services, and combat the stigmatization of survivors. Strengthening legal accountability for perpetrators and implementing effective survivor protection mechanisms could also serve as a strong foundation for positive changes.
Overall, the study highlights that, beyond the obvious physical threats, the war has worsened women’s financial and psychological conditions, exacerbated gender inequality and violence, and increased the overall vulnerability of women and girls. Without systematic changes in social protection, awareness campaigns, legal regulation, and mental health support, these challenges could have long-term consequences for Ukrainian society.
