Feeling safe again

What happens when a refugee flees war in one country--only to encounter danger again in a new one?

That's what happened to Anna*, a Ukrainian woman who fled the war in Ukraine for safety only to find herself in an unsafe situation in Romania.

When Anna left Ukraine with her child--leaving her husband behind--she was placed in a new home by a local aid organization.

Initially, she was grateful for the accommodation. But later she began to feel uncomfortable when the owner set up a surveillance system inside and outside the house, took photos of them without permission and asked for personal information.

When Anna told her family back in Ukraine that she felt unsafe and uncomfortable in the home, they sympathized. But, they said, it was still safer to be there than in a war zone. Reluctantly, Anna stayed.

But when the situation became intolerable, Anna and her child tried to leave. The owner of the house wouldn't let them go, physically barring their departure. Eventually, she did manage to escape and was put into contact with the Anais Association, a partner of CARE Canada in Romania.

Through the Association, which was established in 2011 to promote and defend the rights of women and children, Anna was able to get support and find new housing. She also received help from a lawyer who explained her rights, along with assistance from a social worker and counselling.

Anais also reported Anna's former host to local authorities to ensure no other vulnerable refugees ended up in the same situation.

As a result of Anais's intervention and support, Anna says she and her child "have been able to gain a sense of safety and confidence" while in Romania. She also feels "empowered and supported" now that she knows her rights and is living in a safe space.

Anna and her child are just two of many Ukrainian refugees in Romania who are being helped through The Humanitarian Coalition--people who are vulnerable to abuse and mistreatment after fleeing the war.

Although local community groups in Romania are doing what they can to help, they are overwhelmed and overworked by the need of the many women and children who have come to their country.

CARE Canada's support for the Anais Foundation means more vulnerable refugees like Anna are able to find protection and safety from gender-based violence and exploitation in that country.
 

NB:

* Her real name has been replaced with "Anna" for safety reasons.

The image represents a mindfulness workshop with Ukrainian ladies in refugee center.