REHABILITATION SERVICES FOR VICTIMS OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE

Abstract

The article examines the issue of organizing and providing rehabilitation services for individuals affected by domestic violence in the context of current Ukrainian legislation. The aim of the study is to analyze the national legal framework of Ukraine concerning the organization of rehabilitation services for victims of domestic violence. The relevance of the topic is substantiated in light of socio-economic transformations, war, internal displacement, and increasing social stress, which contribute to the rise in domestic violence cases. The article highlights the historical background of the implementation of rehabilitation services as part of the domestic violence response system. Key legislative and regulatory acts are analyzed, including the Law of Ukraine “On Prevention and Combating Domestic Violence,” the Criminal Code of Ukraine, and provisions of the Istanbul Convention. It is established that the ratification of the Istanbul Convention served as a catalyst for the revision of several legal acts concerning violence. Particular attention is paid to interagency cooperation in providing assistance to victims, and to the roles of central and local authorities, the police, social service centers, and non-governmental and international organizations. The structure of rehabilitation services is outlined, covering psychological, social, medical, and legal assistance, as well as the provision of temporary shelter. The roles of both governmental and non-governmental actors in delivering these services are analyzed, including social service centers, the Children’s Service, shelters, and counseling centers. The article addresses the challenges victims face in accessing support, such as insufficient funding, a shortage of qualified personnel, and lack of proper coordination among institutions. Issues of interagency cooperation, the need for an integrated approach to service delivery, and the improvement of mechanisms for protecting victims' rights are also emphasized. Prospects for further research on enhancing rehabilitation support mechanisms are outlined.