UNHCR is strengthening the response to gender-based violence in Lithuania
UNHCR is strengthening the response to gender-based violence in Lithuania
Gender-based violence (GBV), which especially affects women and girls, occurs all around the world. However, women who are displaced or living in conflict-affected areas face particularly heightened risks.
According to a study from 2025 commissioned by UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, and conducted by Diversity Development Group (DDG), the finding show that a person's legal status in Lithuania can determine and limit the possibility of support, protection and assistance for gender-based violence, despite Lithuania's progressive GBV response. Click here to read more about the study.
To strengthen the response to gender-based violence and improve support to survivors in Lithuania, UNHCR conducted a two-day training at the Vilnius Reception and Integration Agency from 15 - 16 September.
The training was led by UNHCR representatives Inna Borisevich and Yolande Ditewig and brought together around twenty specialists from the Reception and Integration Agency, including social workers, psychologists, ambulance personnel, medical professionals and legal service coordinators.
The main focus of the workshop was to strengthen the refugee reception system by equipping specialists with the right knowledge and practical tools needed to recognize gender-based violence and respond to it appropriately.
Participants were also educated with practical approaches on how to provide survivor-centered support and assistance, as well as how to communicate with refugees and asylum-seekers who have experienced gender-based violence.
Reflecting on the importance of strengthening the knowledge of reception authorities, Renata Kules, UNHCR Associate Government Liaison Officer who participated in the workshop, highlighted how the training builds on previous efforts to improve the response to gender-based violence in Lithuania:
“Following the GBV study undertaken in Lithuania in 2025, we have continued our efforts to support Lithuanian reception authorities in building a more survivor-centered system for GBV prevention, response, and risk management. I hope this training offers practical guidance that participants can apply directly in their daily work.”
Gender-based violence is a serious violation of human rights, and its consequences can leave deep scars on a person’s life. Through training on how to support and protect people who are at risk of GBV, it can prevent them from being subjected to sexual, physical or psychological violence, as well as ensuring that survivors receive appropriate support.
