Series of training sessions for 100 police officers on responding to, classifying, and documenting cases of sexual harassment as an administrative offense
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UN Women, in partnership with the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Ukraine and the National Police of Ukraine, conducted a series of training sessions for 100 police officers on responding to, classifying, and documenting cases of sexual harassment as an administrative offense under Article 173-7 (Sexual Harassment) of the Code of Administrative Offenses of Ukraine.
On December 19, 2024, the Law of Ukraine "On Amendments to the Code of Administrative Offenses of Ukraine in Connection with the Ratification of the Council of Europe Convention on Preventing and Combating Violence Against Women and Domestic Violence" (No. 3733-IX) came into effect. The adoption of this law is a significant step forward in preventing gender-based and domestic violence and strengthening mechanisms for protecting survivors, including children.
The law introduces a separate provision specifically for "gender-based violence," distinguishing it more precisely from other offenses. This aligns with the requirements of Article 11 of the Istanbul Convention, ensuring the accurate collection of statistical data on all types of violence within the convention's scope.
Additionally, a new article establishes administrative liability for "sexual harassment," including cases involving electronic communications. These changes aim to harmonize Ukraine's legislation with European standards for violence prevention, marking an important phase in the country's European integration process.
In response to these legislative changes UN Women supported the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Ukraine and the National Police of Ukraine to organize training sessions for 100 police officers — 36 women and 64 men. The training focused on effective responses to cases of sexual harassment, documentation, and evidence collection related to such offenses under Article 173-7 (Sexual Harassment) of the Code of Administrative Offenses of Ukraine.
The training also covered police response protocols, psychological aspects of working with survivors, prevention o strategies, and distinction between sexual harassment and other sexual offenses.
The training sessions were conducted by UN Women at the request and in partnership with the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Ukraine and in cooperation with the National Police of Ukraine. These activities were part of the project "Building a Democratic, Peaceful, and Gender-Equal Society in Ukraine – Phase II," funded by the Government of Norway.
Photo: Valeriia Pysetska / UN Women
