Former Captive’s Journey: Rebuilding Life After Donetsk Release | IOM Ukraine
- The experience of being held captive leaves deep and lasting scars, extending far beyond physical injuries.
- The trauma experienced in Russian captivity often includes savage beatings, torture, and sexual violence, as reported by survivors like Oleksii Sivak, a 41-year-old from Kherson who was released...
- The absence of dedicated support systems for male survivors has spurred some to take matters into their own hands.
The Long Road Back: Reintegrating into Civilian Life After Russian Captivity
The experience of being held captive leaves deep and lasting scars, extending far beyond physical injuries. For Ukrainians released from Russian captivity, the challenges of reintegration into civilian life are immense, often compounded by a lack of targeted support. While rehabilitation programs exist, they have historically focused on the needs of women and children, leaving men—who represent a significant portion of those subjected to captivity—to navigate their recovery largely on their own.
The trauma experienced in Russian captivity often includes savage beatings, torture, and sexual violence, as reported by survivors like Oleksii Sivak, a 41-year-old from Kherson who was released shortly before the city’s liberation. The psychological and emotional fallout from such experiences can be debilitating, making even routine tasks feel overwhelming. Yurii Shapovalov, a doctor who also survived captivity, found that simply using a phone, riding an elevator, or taking the subway felt difficult after his release. These seemingly simple activities become fraught with anxiety and disorientation, a testament to the profound disruption captivity inflicts on a person’s sense of normalcy.
The absence of dedicated support systems for male survivors has spurred some to take matters into their own hands. Oleksii Sivak, recognizing this critical gap, founded “The Network of Ukrainian Men Who Survived Captivity and Torture – The Alumni,” a public organization dedicated to providing assistance to others who have shared his experiences. Through this network, he has already helped over 400 men access the support they need, demonstrating a powerful example of peer-led recovery.
The challenges extend beyond immediate psychological trauma. Restoring a sense of purpose and rebuilding a life requires practical steps, such as verifying employment records and obtaining necessary documentation. Yurii Shapovalov, a child neurologist before his capture, is currently working to restore his diploma and verify his employment history, essential steps before he can pursue refresher courses and return to his profession. This bureaucratic hurdle highlights the systemic obstacles faced by those attempting to rebuild their lives after prolonged disruption.
The process of rebuilding isn’t solely about regaining professional standing; it’s also about rediscovering personal joy and a sense of self. When asked what brings him joy now, Yurii Shapovalov paused, eventually responding, “Having my own place.” This simple desire—for privacy, solitude, and a space to regain control—underscores the fundamental need for autonomy and self-determination that is often stripped away during captivity. He describes the importance of having “time to be alone, to think, to put things in order,” a sentiment that speaks to the profound need for internal processing and emotional regulation.
Even seemingly small pleasures, like nurturing a hobby, can become symbolic acts of reclaiming life. Yurii, a longtime enthusiast, notes that his current apartment’s north-facing window isn’t ideal for cacti, which require specific conditions and careful attention. However, his determination to “find a way to start again” reflects a resilient spirit and a commitment to rebuilding a life filled with meaning and purpose. This seemingly minor detail illustrates a broader theme: the importance of re-establishing routines and finding joy in everyday activities as a pathway to healing.
The experiences of Yurii and Oleksii highlight a critical need for increased and more targeted support for male survivors of Russian captivity. While international organizations and the Ukrainian state are providing assistance, the current programs often fall short of addressing the unique needs of this population. The success of initiatives like “The Alumni” demonstrates the power of peer support and the importance of creating spaces where men can connect, share their experiences, and access resources tailored to their specific challenges.
The long-term effects of captivity are still being understood, but it’s clear that the road to recovery is complex and requires a multifaceted approach. Beyond psychological counseling and medical care, survivors need assistance with practical matters such as legal documentation, employment, and housing. Fostering a sense of community and providing opportunities for social reintegration are crucial for helping them rebuild their lives and reclaim their futures. , Frontliner reported on the experiences of these survivors, emphasizing the need for continued attention and support.
The return of prisoners of war, such as a soldier who had been held for three years and was recently released on , as reported on Facebook, serves as a powerful reminder of the human cost of conflict and the importance of providing comprehensive care for those who have endured the horrors of captivity. The journey back to civilian life is a long and arduous one, but with adequate support and a commitment to addressing the unique needs of each survivor, it is a journey that can ultimately lead to healing and renewed purpose.
IOM’s medical assistance to survivors of war-related violence is funded by Sweden, and its advocacy efforts were supported by the Government of Switzerland and the UN Multi-Partner Trust Fund, UN Action Against Sexual Violence in Conflict.