From Darkness to Light: How Data is Transforming the Response to Gender-Based Violence in Ukraine

Globally, nearly one in three women experience violence in their lifetime. In humanitarian crises that number soars to 70%. Of the 14.6 million Ukrainians needing humanitarian assistance, eight million are women and girls—a population acutely vulnerable to gender-based violence (GBV). Beyond the displacement and devastation, a hidden crisis rages: an estimated 2.5 million people—primarily women and girls—urgently require support for gender-based violence, including sexual violence. 

This 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (GBV), we are shining a light on the importance of data, and the role of iMMAP Inc. in responding, preventing and addressing GBV in Ukraine.

A woman waits with her child at Lviv train station. Photo: ©WHO/Marta Soszynska

Shining a Light on Hidden Realities

In Ukraine, our team is working closely with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), and other partners across the Gender-based Violence (GBV) Area of Responsibility (AoR), Sexual Reproductive Health and Protection from Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (PSEA)  Networks to improve service mapping for GBV survivors through the enhancement of Information Management (IM), data collection and use of innovative solutions.

Hakim Almaweri, our Technical Advisor in Ukraine, explains iMMAP Inc.’s role within and to support the clusters: " We provide Information Management support to the GBV AoR and PSEA initiatives through a comprehensive suite of services and capacity-building tailored to address critical needs in these areas. This includes implementing and managing data collection tools such as KoBoToolbox and ActivityInfo, as well as developing and maintaining interactive dashboards to enhance data visualization and accessibility.”

This work is not merely about collecting numbers; it's about revealing evidence for action. By documenting incidents, identifying trends, and pinpointing geographical hotspots, iMMAP’s work helps to unveil the scope of the problem. This data empowers responders to use evidence to inform their response, target their resources effectively, ensuring that aid reaches those who need it most. As Hakim emphasizes:

A group of women fleeing Ukraine arrive in Moldova. Photo: ©UN Women

From Data to Action: Preventing Future Violence 

Ivan Soltynchuk, our Associate Information Management Officer supporting the GBV AoR, underscores the transformative power of IM and data analysis:

Ivan works directly with the GBV AoR Ukraine Protection Cluster to analyze and visualize data, he reflects on his work in using the 5W data collection tool, a tool which is designed to provide essential information regarding which organizations (Who) are carrying out which activities (What) in which locations (Where) in Which period (When) for which beneficiaries (Whom): "Through analyzing and visualizing 5W data on GBV across Ukraine, we highlight critical gaps, inform program development, and raise awareness, ensuring that GBV responses are grounded in accurate, accessible information."

Ukraine - GBV AoR 5Ws Interactive Dashboard, 2024.

But data collection is only the first step. To truly prevent future violence, we must take further action. Ivan recommends three key steps:

1. Enhance Data Quality and Consistency:Improving data collection processes ensures comprehensive information is captured, including crucial details like gender, age, and location.
2. Develop User-Friendly Tools and Systems:Streamlining data collection, analysis, and visualization makes the process more efficient and accessible for all users.
3. Foster Collaboration Among Partners:Sharing knowledge and collaborating across organizations deepens understanding of GBV trends and allows for targeted, effective interventions.

As Hakim Almaweri emphasizes, data has the power to "reshape perceptions, inspire action, and drive systemic change in addressing GBV."  By providing the tools and expertise needed to collect, analyze, and visualize vital information, and by working toward creating a robust data validation mechanism, we are empowering communities and decision-makers to confront GBV. This collaborative work is crucial not only in the immediate term, but for Ukraine's early recovery efforts, supporting law enforcement, judicial reforms, and comprehensive services for GBV survivors.

It is time for action; There is #NoExcuse. 

Project Overview: Provision of Information Management Support to Ukraine Crisis Response Clusters

iMMAP provides essential IM support to help organizations make data-driven, inclusive decisions in their aid efforts. In Ukraine, this work is funded by the USAID Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance (BHA) through the "Provision of Information Management Support to Ukraine Crisis Response Clusters" project.