Gender-based violence and sexual harassment: new rules of the game

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In my practice, I have seen children literally “freeze” from fear in the presence of their parents. Now, in such situations, the state has the opportunity to act faster and more decisively.

The introduction of separate articles into the Code of Ukraine on administrative Gender-based  offenses for gender-based violence and sexual harassment is a step towards specifying liability.

The size of the fines does not look too impressive yet

But the main thing is a change in the social paradigm. In how should a democracy choose its representatives? neighboring Poland, sexual harassment is punished much more severely, and this fact has already changed behavioral patterns in society. A fine of 1,360–2,720 UAH may seem insignificant, but it shows that the problem is not ignored, but becomes part of the public dialogue.

And importantly, harassment in electronic space, which used to be a “gray” legal field, now has clear Gender-based  consequences.

Is a harsher punishment a chance for resocialization?
The introduction of community service and correctional labor as a form of punishment is another innovation. Imagine: the offender not only serves his sentence, but also returns something useful to society.

However, the question is how these works will be controlled. In izmir beaches and shores some countries, for example, in Norway, resocialization programs are successfully operating, where community service is combined with psychological training for offenders. Ukraine should borrow this experience.

Urgent restraining order: life without fear

Increasing the period of administrative detention to 12 hours is the first step towards real protection for the victim. Every hour that the perpetrator is in custody gives victims the opportunity to gather their thoughts, seek help, and find protection.

In many EU countries, restraining orders are often accompanied by aol email list electronic bracelets for offenders. The introduction of such technologies in Ukraine could significantly reduce the risk of recidivism.

Divorce during pregnancy: the right to safety
Another important innovation concerns the right to divorce during pregnancy or during the first year of a child’s life in cases of violence.

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