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Logline

Despite deep traces of trauma from sexual violence and torture as a result of Russian aggression, Ukrainian women survivors are uniting to break the stigma and silence together, turning their testimonies into a reverse powerful weapon.

Synopsis

TRACES shines a light on Ukrainian women who, after surviving conflict-related sexual violence (CRSV) and torture during Russia’s war, refuse to remain silent. Through the journey of Iryna Dovhan, a former captive turned activist, who documents testimonies of affected women on the de-occupied territories of Ukraine, the film weaves a collective portrait of trauma while opening space for hope. Iryna gathers other survivors into a circle of courage and care. Together, they transform their pain into a force for truth, justice, and mutual support. More than a record of war crimes, the film is a testament to resilience and the solidarity of women standing side by side.
 

Meet the Filmmakers

Olha Bregman — Producer
Olha Bregman is a Ukrainian producer with more than 15 years of experience in film production. She is a co-founder of the women-led production company 2BRAVE PRODUCTIONS. Her credits include award-winning films such as TIMESTAMP (2025 Berlinale Competition) and STOP-ZEMLIA by Kateryna Gornostai (2021 Crystal Bear Generation 14+ at Berlinale), RULES OF TWO WALLS by David Gutnik (2023 Special Jury Prize at Tribeca FF), INTERCEPTED by Oksana Karpovych (two special mentions at Berlinale 2024), CUBA & ALASKA by Yegor Troyanovsky (2025 Documentary Jury and Audience Award at Brussels Film Festival). She served as Chairwoman of the Ukrainian Film Academy (2022–2024) and now continues as a member of its Board. She is a member of European Film Academy and an alumna of EURODOC 2018 and Ex Oriente training programs.

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Contact

For inquiries, please contact fiscalsponsorship@filmindependent.org.