9 June 2026 – Justice professionals have participated in a specialized workshop focused on strengthening the implementation of a victim-centred approach for investigating war crimes, including conflict-related sexual violence (CRSV).

On 25-29 May, the United Nations Team of Experts on the Rule of Law and Sexual Violence in Conflict (UN Team of Experts), with the support of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Ukraine, organized a training workshop for prosecutors, investigators, judges, and legal aid providers. 

During the event, participants examined international standards, specifically focusing on the impact of adopting the Rome Statute on CRSV investigations and prosecutions. Furthermore, they discussed strategies for developing evidentiary frameworks and methods for interviewing CRSV survivors in a manner that prevents re-traumatization. 

Why is this important? 

CRSV crimes have severe negative impacts on the physical and psychological health of survivors. Consequently, it is crucial during investigations that victims feel safe and that their needs are respected. A victim-centred approach, which prioritizes the interests and rights of victims, contributes significantly to this. This training is part of a systematic effort to integrate a victim-centred approach into the field of access to justice.

Previously, the UN Team of Experts and the Coordination Centre for Legal Aid Provision presented new Methodological Recommendations on Effectively Representing Survivors of CRSV. These recommendations provide standards for interviewing survivors, guide advocates on legal representation, and include a reference section with practical tools and resources. The Methodological Recommendations are available here: https://legalaid.gov.ua/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/metodychni-rekomendacziyi-z-dodatkamy.pdf

Background: 

The Team of Experts was established by the United Nations Security Council to assist national authorities in strengthening accountability for CRSV. It comprises experts from the Department of Peace Operations, the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, UNDP, and the Office of the Special Representative on Sexual Violence in Conflict. 

Media enquiries: 

Geraldine Boezio, Email: geraldine.boezio@un.org │ Follow us on social media: @endrapeinwar

Yuliia Samus, UNDP Ukraine Head of Communications and Advocacy; e-mail: yuliia.samus@undp.org