The ongoing war in Ukraine has brought untold hardships to countless individuals, but adolescent girls have been particularly affected. A recent report by Plan International, titled Adolescent Girls in Crisis: Voices from Ukraine, Poland, and Romania, sheds light on the severe educational disruption and mental health challenges faced by girls and youth aged 10-19 caught in the crossfire.
UKRAINE ; DISPLACEMENT AND EDUCATIONAL DISRUPTION
Girls displaced by the war in Ukraine are experiencing significant disruptions in their education. Many have been forced to abandon their studies, either because they remain in war-torn regions or have fled to neighbouring countries like Moldova, Poland, and Romania. The instability has made it nearly impossible for these girls to maintain a consistent educational routine.
UKRAINE ; MENTAL HEALTH CHALLENGES
The constant state of alertness and fear has taken a toll on the mental health of these young girls. Inna, a 15-year-old living near Kyiv, encapsulates this struggle: “Even in our own house, we don’t feel safe anymore. The night is the hardest, with the endless sound of sirens.” This pervasive anxiety is compounded by the trauma of displacement and the uncertainty of their futures.
UKRAINE ; VULNERABILITY TO EXPLOITATION
The war and subsequent displacement have made adolescent girls particularly vulnerable to sexual harassment and exploitation. The breakdown of societal structures and protective mechanisms has exposed these young individuals to increased risks, further exacerbating their already precarious situation.
UKRAINE ; REMARKABLE RESILIENCE
Despite the immense challenges, the report highlights the remarkable resilience of these girls. They remain hopeful and envision a future built on peace and inclusivity. Their determination to persevere and contribute to the reconstruction of their country is a testament to their strength.
INCLUSION IN RECOVERY EFFORTS
Sven Coppens, Director of Plan International’s Ukraine Humanitarian Crisis Response in East and Central Europe, emphasizes the importance of including adolescent girls and young people in recovery efforts. “Through this research, we uncover the often-ignored voices and perspectives of adolescent girls affected by the war in Ukraine. Sadly, their opinions are often overlooked. Adolescent girls and young people in all their diversity must be included in the recovery and reconstruction of their country, to achieve gender equality, and women’s and girls’ rights,” Coppens asserts.
DELIVERING ESSENTIAL SERVICES
Since 2022, Plan International has been actively supporting those affected by the war in Ukraine. The organization has reached nearly 650,000 individuals, including over 259,000 girls and boys. Their efforts focus on delivering essential services in critical areas such as mental health and psychosocial support, education, and sexual and reproductive health and rights.
MENTAL HEALTH AND PSYCHOSOCIAL SUPPORT
Providing mental health and psychosocial support is crucial in helping these girls cope with their traumatic experiences. Plan International’s interventions aim to alleviate the psychological burden and foster resilience among affected individuals.
EDUCATION INITIATIVES
Restoring educational opportunities is another key focus. Plan International is working to ensure that displaced girls can continue their studies, whether through formal schooling or alternative educational programs. Access to education is not only a fundamental right but also a critical component of their future prospects.
SEXUAL AND REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH AND RIGHTS
The organization also emphasizes the importance of sexual and reproductive health and rights. By providing access to these essential services, Plan International aims to protect the well-being and dignity of adolescent girls amidst the chaos of war.
CALL TO ACTION
The report serves as a powerful call to action for donors, practitioners, and policymakers ahead of the Ukraine Recovery Conference in Berlin, Germany, beginning on June 11, 2024. It underscores the urgent need for immediate and targeted interventions to address the critical needs of adolescent girls in and from Ukraine.
Prioritizing access to education and mental health services is essential to ensure a more sustainable and equitable future for these girls. As the war continues to have a devastating impact on their lives, these interventions are crucial in helping them rebuild their futures.
Ensuring the safety and dignity of adolescent girls is paramount. Efforts must be made to protect them from exploitation and abuse, providing a secure environment where they can thrive.