On March 24, as part of a broader vision for the adaptation and rehabilitation of people with disabilities in the context of war, the Ukrainian Evangelical Theological Seminary held a seminar on the ethics of interaction and the risk of retraumatization among veterans and people with disabilities in Ukraine.
The seminar addressed key aspects of ethical and sensitive communication with war veterans and people with disabilities, as well as explained how to avoid retraumatization in the process of interaction, support, and social engagement.
Participants explored the principles of respectful communication, learned which words or actions may unintentionally trigger traumatic experiences, and received practical guidance on how to build safe and supportive conversations.
The event equipped participants with a deeper understanding of the experiences of those affected by war and contributed to building a culture of respectful, responsible, and dignified interaction with veterans and people with disabilities in Ukrainian society.
As the war in Ukraine continues, the number of people living with war-related disabilities is growing every day. Ukraine currently has over 3 million people with disabilities, including at least 300,000 individuals whose disabilities are directly connected to the full-scale war. Additionally, up to 1 million people have been injured but are not yet officially recognized.
At Ukrainian Evangelical Theological Seminary, we are actively responding to this urgent challenge by developing a holistic Christ-centered model of care that unites professional training, rehabilitation, and community support.
While the stigma around disability — rooted in Soviet history — continues to limit inclusion and access, we strive to create an environment where war amputees and other individuals with disabilities are fully integrated, valued, and empowered to live with dignity and purpose, and ultimately exposed to the Gospel.
In this context, churches are becoming vital centers of hope and healing. However, many ministers and caregivers lack the necessary training to respond effectively. UETS is stepping into this gap by providing education and training, public awareness, physical rehabilitation, counseling and community support.
We are grateful to Our Lord Jesus Christ and our partners who enable us to build a community where every life is valued, restored, and filled with hope.