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We are deeply disturbed by recent reporting from the Office of the High Commissioner
for Human Rights of allegations of incidents of sexual and gender-based violence in
eastern Ukraine. This includes reports of rape or detention of women at check-points
and incidents of the abduction of women, by armed groups, whose whereabouts remain
unknown. The Women’s International League for Peace and Freedom has also received
reports of a rise in domestic violence and human trafficking across Ukraine. The British
Government has been in dialogue with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees
(UNHCR) around protection concerns, including sexual violence, at collective centres
for the displaced and have confirmed that the UK’s £700,000 contribution to the UNHCR
to repair housing for the displaced is being complemented by the work of UNHCR protection
officers. We have consistently raised our concerns about these issues with partners
and we will continue to call on all sides to ensure respect for international law.
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