In response to the devastating impact of russia's military invasion of Ukraine, the Democracy Action All-Ukrainian Public Organization, in partnership with the PanteonX Charitable Foundation has initiated the establishment of safe spaces for women and children forced to leave their homes. These spaces are designed to address the urgent psychological and social needs of vulnerable populations affected by the ongoing conflict.

Millions of women with children have been displaced, fleeing their homes to seek refuge in regions of Ukraine distant from the conflict zones. Many endured the harrowing experience of occupation by russian forces. Despite the liberation of their territories, these women and girls face immense physical and psychological challenges as they strive to rebuild their lives.

Safe Spaces: Haven for Healing and Growth

The creation of safe spaces aims to provide essential support in:

- Psychological adaptation: Helping women and girls transition to a peaceful life and recover from trauma.

- Self-development: Offering opportunities for personal growth and empowerment.

- Social integration: Building connections with local communities and fostering a sense of acceptance and belonging.

- Skill building: Providing training to enhance leadership and vocational competencies.

Understanding Challenges

The ongoing conflict has disproportionately impacted women and children, who constitute nearly 90% of those displaced. IDP women and children often experience heightened vulnerability due to displacement, loss of family members, and economic instability. Many local women, whose husbands are serving in the Armed Forces of Ukraine, also bear the responsibility of being primary breadwinners. These overlapping challenges highlight the need for comprehensive support mechanisms to foster resilience and recovery.

Women with disabilities, elderly women, and those fleeing with their children face additional challenges, such as limited mobility and inadequate housing options. Recognizing these needs, Ukraine's State Fund for the Promotion of Youth Housing Construction, with international support, has introduced a preferential mortgage program for IDPs.

Healthcare services for women and children have been severely disrupted by the war. Over 1,500 attacks on medical facilities have decimated the system's capacity, leading to staffing shortages and reduced access to care. The healthcare workforce has diminished by 14%, equivalent to 89,000 personnel, leaving physicians overwhelmed and unable to meet growing demands.

Women in rural and conflict-affected areas face significant barriers to maternal healthcare, with many forced to give birth under dire conditions, often without electricity, heat, or water. Additionally, rising medication costs and poverty have created further barriers to access, placing millions at risk.

Psychological Trauma and Vulnerability to Violence

The psychological toll of the war is immense. The World Health Organization estimates that nearly 9.6 million Ukrainians, many of them women and children, may require mental health services for conditions such as anxiety and PTSD.

In response, Ukraine has taken critical steps to combat gender-based violence by ratifying the Istanbul Convention and implementing integrated solutions. These include awareness campaigns, specialized

assistance centers, and improved victim hotlines, offering survivors access to medical, psychological, and legal support.

Planned Initiatives

To address these pressing needs, the PanteonX Charitable Foundation and the Democracy Action Public Organization will:

- Establish safe spaces: Secure locations within local communities to provide a haven for women and children.

- Provide psychological support: Professional counseling services, art therapy sessions, and group activities tailored to their needs.

- Facilitate skill development and education: Workshops, informal education, and training programs aimed at improving life skills and employability.

These initiatives will be inclusive, catering to both displaced individuals and local residents to foster community cohesion and mutual support.

The success of these programs relies on the generosity and commitment of donors, partners, and volunteers. Here are ways to contribute:

- Donate: Financial contributions can help sustain the Safe Spaces and expand their reach

- Volunteer: Share your time and expertise in counseling, education, or community building.

- Spread awareness: Advocate for the needs of displaced women and children by sharing their stories and our mission.

The plight of displaced women and children underscores the urgent need for global solidarity and action. Governments, humanitarian organizations, and international partners must work together to address the housing crisis, improve healthcare access, and provide psychological support to the most vulnerable.

By ensuring safe premises and comprehensive support, we can help restore dignity and stability to the lives of displaced women and children, fostering resilience and hope amidst the ongoing crisis.

Contacts: Democratic Action All-Ukrainian Public Organization:  https://demaction.org.ua/; email:  demaction@ukr.net; PanteonX International Charitable Foundation: https://panteonx.fund/; email: [email protected]