How Understanding Trauma’s Effects Can Enhance Prosecution of GBV Crimes: A Roundtable in Mykolaiv and Odesa

How Understanding Trauma's Effects Can Enhance Prosecution of GBV Crimes: A Roundtable in Mykolaiv and Odesa

How does trauma shape the memory and behaviour of survivors? What happens when a person's testimony is fragmented or inconsistent due to the profound effects of their experiences? And how can investigators ensure their work does no further harm while strengthening the chances for justice?

These were the key questions explored at the roundtables organised by the EUAM Odesa Field Office in Mykolaiv and Odesa last week as part of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign. In line with its commitment to supporting counterparts in liberated and adjacent territories, EUAM brought together investigators, prosecutors, psychologists, Ombudsperson representatives, and civil society groups from Mykolaiv, Kherson, and Kirovohrad regions. In Odesa, the event welcomed in-person participation from UNDP, and representatives from EU Member State embassies, UN Women, and members of the inter-agency working group on conflict-related sexual violence (CRSV) joined online.

The event explored how traumatic experiences can affect the brain and autonomic nervous system, and what the implications can be for the memory and behaviour of a victim/survivor, possibly resulting in fragmented memory, confusion, incoherence and inconsistent testimony. Experts highlighted that understanding these effects is essential for investigators-not only to avoid re-traumatising survivors but also to conduct survivor-centred investigations that hold perpetrators accountable.

"For GBV and particularly sexual violence crimes, much of the burden of proof lies with the survivors," said Sanna Kaskeala, an EUAM Adviser on Rule of Law. "The strength of their statement depends on the effectiveness of the investigation and the ability of investigators to conduct interviews with care and in a trauma-informed manner." This comprehensive understanding of trauma's effects, Sanna added, is key to improving the chances of successful prosecution.

The event also fostered valuable cross-sector dialogue under Chatham House Rules. Participants shared insights and practical strategies in an open and collaborative environment. "It's not every day that we have such diverse expertise in the same room," noted one participant. "This collaboration is exactly what we need to address these challenges effectively."

Mykolaiv remains a frontline region, with a part of its territory still under Russian occupation. Odesa region also continues to endure constant Russian shelling. Constant air raids disrupt daily life, serving as a stark reminder that the war is far from over. Yet, places like underground pubs, repurposed as shelters and meeting points, have become symbols of the resilience and determination of local residents. It is in these spaces that critical discussions, such as the one organised by the Mission in Mykolaiv, equip those on the frontlines of justice with essential tools to support survivors and hold perpetrators accountable.