Attachments
Main findings of the research
The socio-economic conditions in frontline oblasts present a complex yet stabilised reality, shaped by the population's adaptation to the prolonged state of war. While the initial phase of the full-scale invasion severely disrupted all aspects of daily life, the current situation reflects a period of relative stability, albeit under persistent hardship. Key challenges such as loss of livelihoods, destruction of housing infrastructure, and disruptions to essential services—including electricity and water supply—have had a profound impact on the quality of life.
Despite these adversities, affected communities have demonstrated a remarkable degree of adaptation to the new wartime realities—both in terms of material conditions and psychological resilience. However, a concerning trend has emerged: the "normalisation of the abnormal," where prolonged exposure to deprivation and constant stress has led to a recalibration of social norms. While this adaptation provides a degree of psychological stability, it simultaneously underscores the erosion of acceptable living standards, posing significant risks for long-term social and mental well-being.
The financial resources of families in frontline oblasts have been severely depleted. Savings that once sustained basic living standards have been exhausted, while the recovery of income sources remains slow due to the ongoing labour market crisis, displacement, and forced mobilisation. In response to these economic hardships, many households have undergone a redefinition of material priorities, shifting their focus from financial security to alternative, non-material sources of stability and resilience.
Vulnerable groups—including internally displaced persons (IDPs), pensioners, youth, young parents, and persons with disabilities—face unique and compounded challenges. Limited access to housing, employment opportunities, and essential social services further exacerbates their vulnerability. Additionally, the absence of an effective inclusive support system and low public awareness of the specific needs of these populations underscore the urgent need to expand targeted assistance and tailored support programmes.
The security situation remains a persistent source of stress for the population. The prolonged exposure to this environment has led to a widespread desensitisation to threats, with many individuals increasingly disregarding alarms and official warnings. A critical gap remains in preparedness measures, as communities continue to face limited access to adequately equipped shelters, insufficient evacuation readiness, and inconsistent dissemination of information on safety protocols. These factors heighten vulnerabilities in the event of an escalation, leaving the population ill-prepared to respond effectively to deteriorating security conditions. Although many residents possess some level of experience and knowledge regarding conflict-related risks, the overall readiness of the affected communities remains insufficient to cope with potential escalations, underscoring the urgent need for enhanced conflict preparedness and protection interventions.
The analysis of data on Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) and gender stereotypes reveals a complex and multidimensional landscape. The ongoing conflict and deepening socio-economic crisis have exacerbated the prevalence of SGBV, with an increase in reports to law enforcement agencies and social services. Women and girls are increasingly experiencing violence in various forms—physical, sexual, psychological, and economic.
At the same time, positive developments are emerging in the form of new support mechanisms, such as mobile teams, crisis rooms, day centres, and civil society organisations, which are gradually strengthening the response to SGBV across the oblasts. However, significant challenges remain:
• Ineffectiveness of Law Enforcement Response: Survivors frequently express dissatisfaction with the response of law enforcement agencies, which are perceived as ineffective and indifferent to their needs. Reports indicate cases where the police fail to respond promptly or do not act at all, and support processes initiated by official structures often end without meaningful outcomes. This lack of action fosters despair and discourages survivors from seeking help, further reinforcing stigma and silence around the issue.
• Impact of Gender Stereotypes: Deeply rooted gender stereotypes continue to hinder open discussions about violence and prevent survivors from seeking support. Beliefs around male dominance, the expectation of female subservience, and myths that blame women for "provoking" violence create significant barriers.
• Generational Differences in Gender Perceptions: A generational divide is evident in attitudes towards gender roles and violence. Younger women tend to challenge traditional stereotypes and reject notions of subordination, while older generations often uphold or tolerate such views, perpetuating harmful norms.
• Hidden and Unaddressed Violence: Despite recognising the presence of gender stereotypes, many individuals cite instances where violence escalates but remains unaddressed due to a lack of available support. In Donetska and Zaporizka oblasts, reports indicate incidents of violence involving military personnel, looting, and psychological trauma, with limited access to psychological rehabilitation services.
• Context-Specific Challenges: In Dnipropetrovska and Kharkivska oblasts, the presence of large numbers of IDPs in collective shelters and dormitories poses additional risks, as overcrowded living conditions increase the likelihood of hidden forms of violence, with limited options for seeking support and ensuring security.
• Barriers to Seeking Help: Vulnerable groups such as pensioners, young mothers, IDPs, and adolescents experience violence in different ways and face unique cultural and psychological barriers to accessing services. Young mothers report feeling isolated and lacking resources, pensioners often accept traditional relationship dynamics, while young people are more open to discussing the issue but fear social stigma and distrust of institutions.
The issue of SGBV and gender stereotypes in the assessed oblasts is deep-rooted and multifaceted, driven by both ineffective institutional responses and persistent patriarchal norms. The lack of consistent awareness-raising efforts and educational initiatives further compounds the challenge. However, community-based support initiatives led by civil society organisations and dedicated safe spaces for women and girls are making a tangible difference. Where such services are available, survivors report high levels of satisfaction, often viewing NGO-led support as more effective and compassionate compared to official channels.