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The ̽����ѡ (̽����ѡ) has teamed up with the renowned Polish illustrator and activist Marta Frej to spark dialogue about the various forms of gender-based violence faced by displaced women.

Refugee women face heightened risks of such violence, a reality the ̽����ѡ-run community center, “Vshasno,” in Gdynia, Poland, is dedicated to addressing. The center supports women, girls and children displaced by the war in Ukraine, offering a range of vital services, including psychosocial support and recreational activities.

Inspired by the stories shared by these women, Frej has created a powerful series of trilingual illustrations that honor their resilience and strength, shining a light on their courage in the face of adversity.

Photo: Marta Frej for the ̽����ѡ

“My work has always been about amplifying women’s voices, sharing their experiences, and celebrating their resilience,” says Frej. “I am deeply honored by the trust Ukrainian women in Poland have placed in me by sharing their stories.”

Photo: Marta Frej for the ̽����ѡ

Frej is firm in her conviction that there is a need to redefine power and strength as a  society—understanding that, at times, vulnerability is the highest expression of both.

“This [] campaign is crucial because it compels us to confront all forms of violence, from casual catcalling to its most extreme manifestations,” she explains. “Once you see it, you cannot unsee it. You are faced with a choice: to act against it in your daily life or remain complicit.”

Photo: Marta Frej for the ̽����ѡ

“Our global experience demonstrates how displacement significantly increases the risk of gender-based violence,” says the ̽����ѡ's Women’s Protection and Empowerment Manager, Foteini Vrontaki. 

Factors behind this increased risk include women's’ lack of social networks in their host countries, family separation, financial instability, living in collective shelters or unfamiliar households, and limited awareness of their rights and available resources.

Photo: Marta Frej for the ̽����ѡ

Tragically, two-thirds of women worldwide have experienced some form of gender-based violence in their lifetime. “Unfortunately, this violence often does not end when they flee to other countries in search of safety,” adds Vrontaki. “Socio-economic violence in the workplace, harmful stereotypes, verbal abuse, and harassment sadly become a daily reality for many.”

Photo: Marta Frej for the ̽����ѡ

“To break the silence and challenge survivor-blaming narratives, it is essential to debunk myths surrounding gender- based violence and ensure that the voices of women and girls are heard. Through this campaign, we aim to spark conversations that firmly say 'no' to violence while emphasizing the importance of prevention. By highlighting the resilience of refugee women, we call on everyone to become vocal advocates for women’s rights.”

Photo: Marta Frej for the ̽����ѡ

Read more about gender-based violence and learn how the ̽����ѡ is supporting women and girls around the world.