Legal aid providers in Chernihiv region will assist local communities in protecting the rights of vulnerable groups

On June 14, 2021, a training on the topic “Legal Protection of Victims of Domestic Violence” for legal aid providers was held in Chernihiv.

The program manager of the Chernihiv Public Committee for the Protection of Human Rights

Nadiya Edieva

delivered a welcoming speech to the participants of the event. Ms. Edieva spoke about the project’s activities and noted that international experience demonstrates how the COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated the situation with respect for the rights of vulnerable groups around the world and that Ukraine is not unique in this regard.

The Director of the Regional Center for Free Secondary Legal Aid in Chernihiv Oblast

Iryna Protchenko

emphasized that victims of domestic violence are currently one of the most vulnerable categories of clients assisted by the VBLA centers in the region. Therefore, in light of recent changes in legislation, it is important for lawyers to strengthen their awareness and capacity to provide more effective and timely assistance to victims and risk groups at the local level.

The trainer of the event

Viktor Valchuk

, a lawyer and national expert on combating domestic violence, emphasized that the problem of domestic violence in the country is particularly acute in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic and quarantine restrictions. At the legislative level, a number of significant changes have been adopted that require study and analysis by legal aid providers. During the event, participants discussed current issues of the regulatory framework for preventing and combating domestic violence, and the application of special measures. Those present consolidated their knowledge by completing practical tasks in groups.

The event was organized by the Chernihiv Public Committee for the Protection of Human Rights as part of the project “Enhancing Security – Building Community” with the support of the US Embassy in Ukraine.