Six women share their stories of the traumatic experience of sexual violence and torture during Russian aggression in Ukraine in 2014-23 in order to preserve the truth. Traces weaves their experience into a complex psychological multi-portrait, revealing collective trauma and documenting war crimes. It’s a journey through the dark memories with all  possible hidden traces to find a way out. Iryna, Liudmyla, Halyna, Tetiana, Olha, and Mefodiivna go through the difficult path to recovery and unity to support each other. Together they work towards a common goal: breaking the stigma and seeking justice. They are members of SEMA Ukraine, a community of Ukrainian women survivors of Conflict-Related Sexual Violence (CRSV) who speak out and fight against sexual violence as a weapon of war, turning their testimonies into a reverse powerful weapon.

The crimes of CRSV committed by the Russian Federation in Ukraine are grave human rights violations, leaving deep scars on survivors and communities. This film amplifies survivors’ voices, preserves their stories, and serves as a tool for justice. It highlights the power of women’s resilience and solidarity—Ukrainian survivors uniting to support one another. Through an impact campaign, we aim to raise awareness, fight stigma, and provide support to survivors. Russia uses sexual violence as a psychological weapon to intimidate, humiliate, and suppress the Ukrainian people in occupied territories. By advocating for justice and shining a light on these atrocities, we call for global action and solidarity, while sending a message of hope and strength to all survivors.