Survivor of conflict-related sexual violence
Summary
Alyssa Kovalenko, a former film student and survivor of conflict-related sexual violence in Ukraine’s Donbass region, shares her harrowing 2014 captivity and subsequent two-year silence. She discusses the trauma of her interrogation and rape, as well as the stigma that kept her isolated until she began speaking out publicly. Kovalenko highlights the importance of solidarity among survivors and the global effort to recognize sexual violence as a war crime. The episode also marks the Dublin premiere of her documentary, *Traces*, which aims to raise awareness about the use of sexual violence a…
Topics discussed
Introduction and guest background
Context of the 2014 Maidan revolution and capture
Details of interrogation and sexual violence
The two-year silence and stigma
Emotional impact and fear during captivity
Realization of potential full-scale invasion
Uncertainty and fear of execution
Coping mechanisms and recurring nightmares
Breaking silence through theater and finding solidarity
Discussion of the documentary 'Traces'
Sexual violence as a weapon of war globally
Legal recognition of conflict-related sexual violence
Closing remarks and support resources
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