Youth Schools Countering Violence Started in Chernihiv

Youth Schools for students of 10-11 grades of lyceums of the Chernihiv region, as well as those who join the work in centers for children and youth at the place of residence, were held in Chernihiv.

Youth Schools are a space where teenagers could speak openly about difficult topics, ask questions, and learn to recognize dangerous situations.

During the lessons, teenagers analyzed what gender-based violence is, how its cycle works, how it differs from ordinary conflict, and how to understand that someone nearby needs support. Psychologists, social educators, and pedagogical organizers created an atmosphere where young people could speak freely and without fear of not being heard.

Oksana Shlyusar, a trainer of the event, emphasized the importance of such a format for teenagers: “When we talk to young people about gender-based violence, it is important to explain not only its types but also the underlying causes that give rise to it. Gender inequality and stereotypes often create the illusion that violence in relationships is ‘normal.’ But it is a violation of human rights. And the earlier teenagers understand this, the more chances there are to prevent danger and support those who suffer.”

Based on the training results, teenagers plan to conduct mini-actions and mini-trainings based on the “peer-to-peer” principle for their peers. These initiatives are expected to cover a large number of participants. This is not just a continuation of the project, but a way in which young people themselves become part of change in their community.

📞 If you or someone you know is suffering from violence, seek help:

🔹 National Hotline for Children and Youth of the NGO “La Strada-Ukraine”: 0 (800) 500 225, 116 111 (free from mobile), Telegram: @CHL116111

🔹 National Hotline of the NGO “La Strada-Ukraine” for the Prevention of Domestic Violence, Human Trafficking, and Gender Discrimination: 0 (800) 500 335, 116 123 (free from mobile), Telegram: @NHL116123

🔹 National Hotline – 15-47

🔹 Round-the-clock line of the NGO “La Strada-Ukraine” – 0 800 500 335 / 116 123 (from mobile)

🔹 Chernihiv Public Committee for Human Rights Protection – 063 140 63 47

🔹 National Police of Ukraine: 102, Telegram bot @police_helpbot

The project is implemented by the Chernihiv Public Committee for Human Rights Protection with technical support from UN Women in Ukraine and with funding from the United Nations Women’s Peace and Humanitarian Fund (WPHF), a flexible and prompt financing tool that supports high-quality measures to increase the capacity of local women in conflict prevention, crisis and emergency response, and use of key peacebuilding opportunities.