“Sexual violence in Ukraine” (RESEARCH)

UCU’s Child Dignity Center and the Fama research agency conducted the first sociological study in Ukraine, “Sexual Violence in Ukraine: From Awareness to Protection” (2021). The results showed the experience of Ukrainians in the context of violence experienced in childhood, the reactions of adults, refuted or confirmed myths, and also projected a socially acceptable model of sex education for Ukraine.

Important points:

In most cases, the blame falls on the one committing sexual violence (77%); however, approximately every fifth Ukrainian believes the victim of violence is as guilty as the offender (21%).
According to the research participants, about 4% experienced rape as a child, 23% experienced sexual violence and/or harassment (including rape).
Most respondents believe offenders of minors to be strangers (62%). However, the facts indicate that in 8 out of 10 cases, victims are subjected to sexual abuse by those close to them or family members.
In general, Ukrainians understand the importance of sex education for children. 46% of respondents believe it should start before the age of 8, 80% - at the age of 9-13, 92% - after reaching the age of 14. Respondents who have children support systematic and early sex education more than people without children. The educational program should be age-appropriate and include an overview of the anatomical differences between boys and girls and, in fact, the reproductive function of the body, as well as topics related to self-acceptance and sexuality, gender equality, Internet safety, etc.

The study has been translated into English and Polish. You can download the respective files below. We also recommend viewing the research reflection in the video resources.