War, internal displacement and economic instability create a challenging environment for women and girls in the Dnipropetrovsk region. A risk assessment of gender-based violence, carried out in early 2026, highlights systemic challenges in the areas of safety, access to services and social support. The study draws on both statistical data and the experiences of women living in the region under prolonged humanitarian pressure.
2026-gbv-risk-assessment-dnipro-region-ukraineA region under the strain of war and displacement
The Dnipropetrovsk region remains one of the key regions hosting internally displaced persons. The region’s population stands at around 3.18 million people, of whom over 471,000 are IDPs. Women account for more than half of this number. The city of Dnipro serves as the main transit hub for people who have left frontline areas.
The constant influx of displaced persons, shelling and the strain on infrastructure are placing additional pressure on social services. This environment affects the level of security in communities and increases the vulnerability of certain population groups.
Which forms of violence are most prevalent?
Research data indicate that domestic and intimate partner violence remain the most prevalent forms. Physical violence is most frequently reported by victims, whilst psychological and economic violence also account for a significant proportion.
At the same time, sexual violence is recorded less frequently, which is attributed to low reporting rates due to fear, stigma and mistrust of the support system. Most cases occur in private settings, which complicates detection and intervention.
According to data from the case-reporting system, psychological violence accounts for over half of all incidents. Physical violence accounts for around a fifth of cases, whilst economic violence accounts for a significant proportion. The vast majority of perpetrators are men, most often partners or family members.
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Who is at increased risk
The most vulnerable groups remain women among internally displaced persons, women in transit, adolescents, people with disabilities, single mothers and women associated with military personnel. Displacement disrupts social ties, creates financial dependency and limits access to stable employment.
Women living in temporary accommodation or with host families often face limited privacy and unequal living conditions. This increases the risks of psychological, economic and sexual violence.
Adolescents constitute a distinct group. They face risks of digital violence, including online blackmail, bullying and the dissemination of personal material without consent. Limited knowledge of online safety and a lack of accessible services for young people exacerbate the situation.
Barriers to accessing support
Despite a well-developed network of specialist services, access to them remains uneven. Most often, women do not seek help due to fear of publicity, mistrust regarding confidentiality, and the risk of social stigma.
Financial difficulties, transport costs and the remoteness of services limit access to support, particularly in rural communities. Air raid alerts and security restrictions also affect mobility and the operation of services.
Teenagers are less likely to turn to official bodies and more likely to seek support from friends. Adult women are more likely to turn to the police or community organisations, though levels of trust in institutions remain mixed.
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Why does violence remain widespread?
The study identifies societal tolerance of violence and the perception of it as a private matter as key factors. In small communities, the fear of judgement and loss of reputation deters women from seeking help.
Changes in gender roles due to mobilisation also affect dynamics within families. Women are increasingly becoming the main breadwinners, which creates additional pressure. For some men, this is accompanied by stress and can manifest in controlling or aggressive behaviour.
Economic instability exacerbates dependency and limits the ability to leave dangerous relationships. Loss of income, debt and the lack of stable employment create a vicious circle of risks.
The support system and its limitations
There are over a hundred specialist services operating in the region, making it one of the best-served areas in the country. At the same time, the study highlights disparities in their accessibility and the workload on staff.
Some institutions operate with limited resources, which affects the quality of services and response times. Not all services ensure an adequate level of confidentiality and inclusivity. Problems with coordination between different sectors lead to fragmented support.
A significant proportion of victims refuse referrals to specialist services, including medical and psychological services. This indicates a low level of trust and a fear of re-traumatisation.
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