Adolescent Girls in Ukraine Face Education Disruption and Mental Health Challenges amid War, according to a new report from by Plan International.
The constant threat and the sound of sirens have instilled a deep sense of fear and insecurity among them, says the report “Adolescent Girls in Crisis: Voices from Ukraine, Poland, and Romania“.
DISRUPTED EDUCATION AND VULNERABILITY
The research reveals that both girls who remain in Ukraine and those who have fled to neighbouring countries like Moldova, Poland, and Romania face significant challenges. Their education is severely disrupted, with many falling behind in their studies or dropping out entirely. This disruption is compounded by the vulnerability to sexual harassment and exploitation, and a surge in anxiety, depression, and other psychological issues.
Adolescents in Ukraine, Poland and Romania demonstrate signs of lasting psychological impacts of their experiences of the war, including high levels of stress and anxiety, difficulties with sleeping and fluctuating emotions. Adolescents and caregivers in all three countries reported a major gap in access to vital specialist mental health services, highlighting in particular the limited awareness of and access to free services.
RESILIENCE AMID HARDSHIPS
Despite these adversities, the report highlights the remarkable resilience of these girls. They continue to envision a future built on peace and inclusivity, holding onto hope amid chaos. Sven Coppens, Director of Plan International’s Ukraine Humanitarian Crisis Response, emphasizes, “Through this research, we uncover the often-ignored voices and perspectives of adolescent girls affected by the war in Ukraine. 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.”
Adolescent girls living close to the frontline in Ukraine face heightened security risks, while adolescent girls across the country every day navigate the risks of air raids. In Poland and Romania, refugee adolescent girls report experiencing alarming rates of sexual harassment and assault both online and in public spaces.
PLAN INTERNATIONAL’S SUPPORT
Since 2022, Plan International has actively supported those affected by the war in Ukraine, reaching 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.
CALL TO ACTION AHEAD OF UKRAINE RECOVERY CONFERENCE
The report serves as a powerful call to action for donors, practitioners, and policymakers ahead of the Ukraine Recovery Conference in Berlin, Germany, starting on June 11, 2024. It underscores the need for immediate and targeted interventions to address the critical needs of adolescent girls in and from Ukraine. Prioritizing their access to education, mental health services, and participation in recovery efforts is essential to ensure a more sustainable and equitable future.
THE DEVASTATING IMPACT OF WAR
The ongoing war continues to have a devastating impact on the mental health, safety, education, and access to sexual and reproductive health services of adolescent girls in Ukraine. Ensuring these girls‘ voices are heard and their needs are met is crucial for their future and the future of their country. The resilience they show, despite the harsh realities, is a testament to their strength and a beacon of hope for a peaceful and inclusive future.