Join the Campaign on June 19 in Support of Survivors of Conflict-Related Sexual Violence

19.06.2025

Today, June 19, marks the launch of an information campaign dedicated to the International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict. The campaign has been initiated under Ukraine’s Presidency of the Global Alliance on Preventing Sexual Violence in Conflict (PSVI).

The aim is to draw global attention to the issue of sexual violence in situations of war and conflict, strengthen international support for survivors, and mobilise global efforts to achieve justice.

On this day, members of the Alliance – both states and non-governmental organisations, as well as state and local authorities in Ukraine and beyond – speak with one voice against CRSV, emphasising the importance of achieving justice for survivors, ensuring comprehensive support, and involving survivors in decision-making processes.

“This is not just an information campaign, but a global voice in support of those who have survived sexual violence during wars and conflicts around the world. It is part of the Alliance’s collective efforts to restore justice and provide assistance to those who need it most. Our goal is to strengthen international efforts to prevent these crimes from being silenced, and to ensure that survivors’ voices are heard and taken into account. Such crimes often remain ‘silent’ – and that is precisely what the Russian Federation seeks. That is why advocacy must be systematic,” stated Deputy Prime Minister for European and Euro-Atlantic Integration – Minister of Justice of Ukraine Olha Stefanishyna.

One of the key elements of the campaign is the rapeseed flower – a symbol of solidarity with survivors of CRSV. This symbol was first introduced in Ukraine in 2023 at a meeting of the Interagency Working Group on Combating Conflict-Related Sexual Violence caused by Russia’s war against Ukraine. The rapeseed flower is able to bloom even under the harshest conditions, embodying the strength of those who have survived violence and their ability to recover. As part of the campaign, Ukraine calls on its partners to use this symbol in their communications as a sign of solidarity with survivors whose experiences must not be forgotten.

The key hashtag for the campaign is #OneVoiceAgainstCRSV, along with hashtags of Ukraine’s Presidency: #PSVI2025UA and #UA_PSVI_LEADERSHIP.

Background

June 19 is observed worldwide as the International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict. The date was chosen in recognition of the adoption of UN Security Council Resolution 1820, which recognises CRSV as a threat to international peace and security.

The Global Alliance on Preventing Sexual Violence in Conflict (PSVI Alliance) is an international initiative launched by the UK Government in 2022 to prevent and combat sexual violence in armed conflict zones. The Alliance serves as an important forum for strengthening global efforts, sharing experience, and supporting survivor-centred actions. It currently includes 29 members – both states and NGOs.

In 2025, Ukraine assumed the Presidency of the Alliance for the first time. Key priorities for this year include reviewing and strengthening core documents, enhancing commitments to create comprehensive reparation programmes for survivors, and studying best practices among Alliance members to develop a practical guide outlining effective measures for prevention, response, and survivor support.