Alisa Kovalenko on surviving conflict-related sexual violence
Summary
Alyssa Kovalenko shares her harrowing 2014 experience of being captured, interrogated, and sexually assaulted by Russian forces in the Donbas region. After two years of silence, she became the first Ukrainian woman to publicly address conflict-related sexual violence, using documentary theater to break the stigma. Now based in Dublin, she works with international human rights organizations to combat the use of sexual violence as a weapon of war globally.
Topics discussed
Rakuten and QVC commercial breaks
Introduction of Alya Kovalenko
Background: Maidan Revolution and decision to document Donbas
Capture, interrogation, and sexual violence in captivity
Two years of silence and stigma
Breaking the silence and isolation
The terror of interrogation and fear of death
Uncertainty and threats to family during captivity
Coping with trauma and self-blame
Using theater and connecting with other survivors
Finding solidarity and strength in community
Sexual violence as a weapon of war
Global fight for justice and legal recognition
Closing remarks and crisis resources
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