INSTITUTIONAL MECHANISM OF PUBLIC POLICY IN RESPONDING TO SEXUAL VIOLENCE RELATED TO THE ARMED AGGRESSION OF THE RUSSIAN FEDERATION AGAINST UKRAINE

Abstract

The article explores the process of formation and functioning of Ukraine’s institutional response mechanism to sexual violence, associated with the armed aggression of the Russian Federation. The author analyzes the unique features of this type of crime in the context of war, the legal framework – including the definition of CRSV in the Law of Ukraine No. 4067-IX – and the scale of documented cases. Special attention is given to the analysis of the legal framework, institutional structures, and interagency mechanisms that ensure the detection, documentation, investigation of conflict-related sexual violence (CRSV), as well as providing support to the survivors. It is noted that CRSV is not only a consequence of war but also a deliberate weapon in Russia’s hybrid warfare, with a systematic nature. The focus of the research is the interagency working group on combating CRSV, its composition, powers, and effectiveness. Based on empirical data, international and national legal acts, and an analysis of the activities of state and civil society organizations, the article reveals a multi-level response system: identification, documentation, investigation, provision of assistance to survivors, and ensuring access to justice and reparations. Special attention is paid to the «Do No Harm» principle in working with survivors, as well as to recommendations for improving interaction procedures among the actors of the mechanism. The current statistics of recorded CRSV cases and key challenges related to access to justice and reparations mechanisms are highlighted. It is concluded that an effective response to CRSV requires sustained interagency cooperation, regulatory improvements, and systematic support for survivors by the state and international partners.