MES begs to create a mechanism of response to sexism and harassment in universities

Activists are asking MES to develop a policy of counteracting sexism and sexual harassment in universities

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Gender’s online resource in detail has submitted a petition to the Ministry of Education and Science demandingpursue a systematic policy of counteracting sexism, sexual harassment and gender -conditioned violence in higher education institutions and develop a mechanism for response to such cases.

Petition registered on the site of the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine.

Its authors are concerned about increasing cases of sexual harassment, violence and rape in universities. They noted that university administrations and legislatures do not respond properly.

« Despite the fact that the theme is resonant and attracts the attention of both the media and activists for almost 10 years, no systematic steps have been taken to identify and solve it.

This, in particular, confirms the cases of sexual harassment associated with Andriy Belous and Joseph Losemthat became known in 2025 and cause serious concern, ” – The content of the petition is said.

What do the petition authors require?

Due to the lack of a clear algorithm for responding to sexism, sexual harassment and gender -conditioned violence of the victims remain without proper protection.

In view of this, « Gender in details » calls the MES to develop and introduce an effective mechanism for preventing sexism, sexual harassment and gender -conditioned violence in higher education institutions that will anticipate:

• adopting a policy of counteracting sexism, sexual harassment and gender -conditioned violence (it is about developing and implementing a single policy that will clearly define the concepts, forms and consequences of sexism, sexual harassment and violence);

• creation of a transparent and confidential process of filing and impartial consideration of complaints for victims, which will guarantee their safety;

• creation of an independent commission for consideration of complaints and policy updating in each HEA, which will include representatives (s) of the university administration, student and independent expert (K) and;

• Definition and appointment of persons, responsible for compliance with the policy of counteracting sexism, sexual harassment and gender -conditioned violence;

• development of mechanisms for prevention of such cases, including training, educational events, information campaigns, as well as the formation of a culture of integrity and zero tolerance for violence;

• Mandatory acquaintance of teachers with the policy of preventing sexism, sexual harassment and gender -conditioned violence at the beginning of each academic year through appropriate orders, specialized lectures or courses.

« It is important for trainings (in particular, for applicants and education applicants) in the HAB they have the opportunity to rely on the principles laid down in school sex education. It is in the future that should be the first step in forming critical thinking about sexism, sexual harassment and gender -conditioned and teenagers.

We are convinced that the implementation of these measures will help to create a safe and favorable environment for studying and working at Ukrainian universities, as well as increasing confidence in the higher education system as a whole ”, – It is in the text.