In Ukraine, the authorities have become aware of dozens of cases of sexual violence by Russian soldiers who have attacked Ukraine, including against boys and men.
Ukraine is gathering evidence of the use of rape as a weapon.
‘s European correspondent Suvi Turtiainen interviewed in Ukraine psychologist Oleksandra Kvitkoa. He helps 94 people raped by Russian soldiers.
Among the people to be helped, Kvitko has a mother who had to watch her 11-year-old son as she was tied up in a chair.
This is not an isolated case.
Dozens of rapes are already under investigation in Ukraine. UN Special Rapporteur on the Use of Sexual Violence in War, Pramila Pattenin according to him, rape of boys and men has also come to his notice.
The cases that have come to light so far are the tip of the iceberg. A large proportion of victims are not afraid or unable to tell anyone about their fate.
– It is difficult for women and girls to report rape, partly because of the social shame involved. But it’s even harder to tell men and boys about it, Patten told a news conference in Kiev According to the Guardian. (switch to another service)
Rape is an effective weapon
Patten is visiting Ukraine and met with the country’s deputy prime minister on Tuesday.
– All warning signs are in red in Ukraine, revealing brutal sexual violence. I am here because we must do everything we can to ensure zero tolerance and consistent sanctions for such crimes, Patten said.
According to Patten, the UN is now working with Ukraine to provide support to rape victims and gather evidence of incidents.
Rape is a cheap and effective weapon in wars.
– Very effective because it not only affects the victim, it affects families and communities. It is a biological war. It is psychological warfare.
Prosecutor General of Ukraine Iryna Venediktova said on Tuesday its agency had collected information on dozens of rapes by Russian soldiers. Women and men of all ages have been victims. According to Venediktova, this is a deliberate tactic by Russia to intimidate the Ukrainian people and crush the will to fight.