Last month, Sophie, the Duchess of Edinburgh became the first royal to visit Ukraine since Russia’s invasion two years ago.
Her visit aimed to show support for the people affected by the conflict.
Duchess of Edinburgh in Ukraine
Upon her return, Sophie has been praised as “brave” for her visit, but she has rejected these compliments, stating that the true bravery lies with the war survivors.
In her account for The Sunday Times, Sophie wrote, “Since coming back to the UK, many have called me brave or courageous for going. I am neither. The brave ones are those who have faced severe violence and survived. The courageous are those who have reported the crimes against them. I’m just glad I made the trip. It was inevitably sad and emotional, and the painful stories and images from the visit will stay with me.”
During her visit, Sophie gave President Zelenski a letter from the King, who had asked about the King’s health.
In February, the King praised the “determination and strength” of the Ukrainian people in a statement marking two years of the conflict.
Sophie, a long-term supporter of those affected by conflict-related sexual violence, called for better psychological care and evidence collection for victims of sexual violence in the war.
She explained that sexual violence in war is often seen as a symptom rather than a deliberate tactic to overpower.
She added, “Only recently have these terrible crimes been more recognized, and people have started to understand that they are used to demean, destroy, and control. The aftermath is long-lasting, with stigma, severe physical and mental health effects, and children born of rape. It’s a weapon that requires no training or investment, and it is used worldwide.”
Statistics from the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights estimated 169 cases of conflict-related sexual violence in Ukraine since February 2022.
The exact number of victims is unknown, as many do not report these crimes. However, the Global Survivors Fund estimates the number to be in the thousands.
Last month, it was announced that survivors of wartime sexual violence in Ukraine would receive reparations.
First Lady Olena Zelenska said, “Reparations for victims of severe human rights violations, including conflict-related sexual violence, are not just about economic support. It is a crucial step towards justice.”
She continued, “This justice is not only in Ukraine. Justice for Ukrainian victims of violence serves as a reflection for the entire world.”
This marks the first time that reparations have been awarded to survivors during an ongoing conflict.