Assessment on Stigmatisation of People with Disabilities and Explosive Ordnance Victims
1. Who is the Danish Refugee Council?
Founded in 1956, the Danish Refugee Council (DRC) is a leading international NGO and one of the few with a specific expertise in forced displacement. Active in 40 countries with 9,000 employees and supported by 7,500 volunteers, DRC protects, advocates, and builds sustainable futures for refugees and other displacement affected people and communities. DRC works during displacement at all stages: In the acute crisis, in displacement, when settling and integrating in a new place, or upon return. DRC provides protection and life-saving humanitarian assistance; supports displaced persons in becoming self-reliant and included into hosting societies; and works with civil society and responsible authorities to promote protection of rights and peaceful coexistence.
DRC has had an uninterrupted presence in Ukraine since 2014 supporting the humanitarian response to the conflict from 2014 in Luhansk and Donetsk oblasts, eastern Ukraine. Since 2022, DRC is active across four of its core sectors in Ukraine – Protection (including PSS, case management, legal aid and GBV), Shelter and Settlements, Economic Recovery (including multi-purpose cash assistance and distribution of non-food items), as well as Humanitarian Disarmament and Peacebuilding (HDP). Within its HDP portfolio, DRC is the only organisation in Ukraine implementing four humanitarian mine action (HMA) pillars: Humanitarian Demining, Explosive Ordnance Risk Education (EORE), Victim Assistance (VA), and Advocacy. DRC also founded the Victim Assistance Technical Working Group (VA WG) and has been co-chairing it since 2023. The overall objective of the VA WG is to improve policies, structures and opportunities for survivors of explosive ordnance (EO) accidents in Ukraine. It also contributes to a comprehensive and standardized response, while coordinating respective activities through collaboration with other relevant ministries and actors, including EO victims representatives, survivor organizations and organizations for people with disabilities.
Currently, DRC has seven offices in eastern, northern, and southern Ukraine (areas offices in Kharkiv, Dnipro, Kyiv, Chernihiv, Mykolaiv and base offices in Sumy, Kherson, Zaporizhzhia, Sloviansk, Ivankiv, and Ichnia) with over 800 staff and scaling up activities across all sectors and areas of operations.
2. Purpose of the consultancy
The DRC, based in Ukraine, is seeking a consultant for a comprehensive needs assessment on stigmatisation of persons with disabilities and EO victims. It is planned to identify barriers and needs arising from stigmatisation associated with disabilities, such as myths or misconceptions around disabilities by conducting a detailed analysis of the current state of stigmatisation in Ukraine, researching best practices for reducing stigmatisation of persons with disabilities. Based on the assessment, the consultant will also provide practical recommendations for a (mass media) advocacy campaign and other awareness raising activities on victim assistance and inclusion-adjacent topics for the general public.
3. Background
According to the official statistics of the Social Protection Fund for Persons with Disabilities of Ukraine, at the beginning of 2022, the total number of officially registered people with disabilities was more than 2,725,0001. According to the Minister of Social Policy, during the war in Ukraine, the number of people with disabilities increased by almost 300,000.
In the face of the ongoing humanitarian crisis, OHCHR’s report2 from November 15, 2024, reveals the harrowing toll on civilians in Ukraine. With 39,081 casualties from explosive weapons recorded, comprising 12,162 deaths and 26,919 injuries since February 24, 2022. According to the NMAA Secretariat3, more than 1,083 casualties from mines and explosive remnants of war have been recorded since 24 February 2022, including 318 killed and 765 injured. But all these figures only scratch the surface of the true human cost. The grim reality is that the actual numbers are likely much higher, and the toll keeps rising, underscoring the urgent need for international attention and aid. Even if the war ends tomorrow, explosive ordnance (EO) will remain, continuing to endanger lives and limbs. With the increasing contamination of the territories by EO, the number of people with disabilities (whose disability or permanent injuries were caused by accidents, bombings and shelling related to explosive ordnance or by the war in general) is expected to keep growing.
One of the most sensitive issues assumed to be faced by persons with disabilities and EO victims is discrimination and stigmatisation. Stigma has serious social, psychological, economic and emotional consequences. It not only impairs the quality of life of persons with disabilities, but also hinders their integration into society, limits access to opportunities and resources, and increases the level of social exclusion. In the context of the full-scale invasion, crisis situations and increasing challenges for persons with disabilities, the issue of stigmatisation has become particularly relevant. In particular, a study conducted in 2023 by the Kyiv Institute of Sociology found that the majority of people with disabilities experience a higher level of social exclusion in times of war due to physical barriers, lack of assistance and stereotypes about their capabilities. The Humanitarian Needs Assessment for Ukraine (2023) conducted by international organisations, such as the UN and the International Committee of the Red Cross also noted that persons with disabilities face higher levels of stigma when receiving assistance when their disability is not properly understood or when there are no adapted services.
This assessment aims to identify the main factors that contribute to the spread of negative perceptions and stereotypes about persons with disabilities. This will allow DRC to measure the level of stigma among different social groups (families, communities, educational institutions, workplaces, etc.) and implement advocacy and awareness raising campaigns countering stigma.
A number of authoritative international instruments, such as the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, the UN Declaration on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination, etc. provide clear guidance on the need to eliminate stigma against persons with disabilities. For example, Article 5 of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, ‘Equality and Non-Discrimination’, guarantees that all persons with disabilities have the right to equal treatment and protection from discrimination. This includes the elimination of all forms of stigma that limit their access to services, education, employment, etc. The UN Declaration on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities proclaims the right of persons with disabilities to equal treatment, protection from exploitation and abuse, and social inclusion. It calls for the reduction of social stereotypes and stigma through education and awareness-raising. That is why the results of the needs assessment will also form the basis for (mass media) advocacy campaigns and other external outreach activities on Victim Assistance and inclusion-related topics launched for the general public aimed at increasing the inclusiveness of the population and reducing the level of stigma against persons with disabilities in various spheres of life.
4. Objective of the consultancy
The purpose of the consultation is to identify the sources and factors of stigma against persons with disabilities and EO victims, analyse the current situation in Ukraine about stigma, and explore best practices in reducing stigma. This involves an in-depth study of the impact of stigma on the lives of people with disabilities and EO victims in various areas. The assessment should assist the consultant in formulating recommendations for increasing the level of inclusiveness and tolerance in society, as well as recommendations for (mass media) advocacy campaigns and other awareness raising activities to be developed based on this study. In particular, the consultant will:
- Analyze national and international legal framework that affect the rights of the persons with disabilities and EO victims and identify gaps in legislation that may contribute to stigmatisation. This includes examination of provisions that inadequately address stigmatisation, perpetuate myths or fail to align with international legal framework and international standards. This analysis will cover relevant legal resources including but not limited to the Law of Ukraine ‘On Rehabilitation of Persons with Disabilities in Ukraine,’ the Law of Ukraine ‘On Social Services,’ the Law of Ukraine ‘On Combating Discrimination,’ the Law of Ukraine ‘On Access to Public Information,’ the Law of Ukraine ‘On the Fundamental Principles of Social Protection of Persons with Disabilities in Ukraine,’ the Labour Code of Ukraine, the Law of Ukraine ‘On Employment of the Population,’ and related resolutions, as well as relevant international legal framework including IMAS, CRPD, ECHR.
- Identify and analyze legal needs and barriers on access to rights of persons with disabilities and EO victims, focusing on how unaddressed needs and gaps may lead to further stigmatisation and discrimination and on how the existing legal framework and associated legal barriers fail to eliminate stigmatization and discrimination. The findings will identify legislative gaps and inform advocacy recommendations to reduce stigma and promote non-discrimination.
- Review previous research on stigmatisation of persons with disabilities in Ukraine, which may include available statistics on employment, educational opportunities and social interaction of persons with disabilities, and assess the level of inclusiveness in society and the types of stigmatizations that exist in public opinion according to available research;
- Conduct a survey among different groups of a wide range of respondents and identify target groups among which stigmatisation of persons with disabilities is most prevalent. These groups may include people of different ages, genders, professions and levels of involvement with people with disabilities;
- Conduct focus groups with identified target groups to obtain relevant data on stigma against people with disabilities and to obtain suggestions on how to overcome it. The focus groups may include, but are not limited to, people with disabilities, EO victims, relatives of people with disabilities, social workers, healthcare professionals, employers, etc;
- Conduct in-depth interviews with people with disabilities, which may include both group and individual conversations, and analyze their personal stories, experiences of stigmatisation, needs and barriers to access to rights and gather their suggestions for potential improvements;
- Analyze the data collected from the survey and assess what resources and support are needed by people with disabilities to overcome contemporary stigmatization in society of Ukraine;
- Develop practical recommendations for overcoming the stigmatisation of people with disabilities in Ukraine, which may include, but are not limited to: recommendations for social and medical institutions to reduce prejudice in the employment of people with disabilities; recommendations for educational programs for schools, universities, and vocational training institutions that could foster a shift in attitudes toward people with disabilities; recommendations for engaging civil society organizations, businesses, employers, and the government in the implementation of these changes;
- Develop recommendations for (mass media) advocacy and awareness raising campaigns, which should include: the most common forms of stigmatisation of people with disabilities that need to be particularly highlighted, such as negative stereotypes, social exclusion, or discrimination in public spaces, employment, and education; target groups where prejudices against people with disabilities are most widespread, such as employers, educators, healthcare professionals, and the general public; main causes of specific types of stigmatisation, including lack of awareness, misconceptions about disability, cultural and historical factors, as well as the influence of media representations and societal norms; the study should also formulate key messages for outreach activities.
- These recommendations should aim to raise awareness, challenge stereotypes, and promote inclusivity through accurate representation and targeted messaging.
5. Scope of work and methodology
The contractor will be expected to provide the following services:
Analysis of the legal and regulatory environment. Examine state legal documents that affect the rights of persons with disabilities and EO victims to identify gaps that contribute to stigmatisation and discrimination. This includes reviewing existing legal frameworks that perpetuate stigma and indentifying areas that are not alligning with relevant international legal frameworks.
Overview of existing research and statistics. To study previous research on stigmatisation of persons with disabilities in Ukraine, to identify the main causes and sources of the subject of study, to find out what steps have been taken to eradicate prejudice against persons with disabilities and whether these steps have been effective.
Initial research to identify stigma and needs. Conduct surveys among different age, gender, occupational and disability groups, including focus groups with different stakeholders, as well as in-depth interviews directly with people with disabilities. Identify the target groups among which stigmatisation of persons with disabilities is most prevalent. Develop questionnaires for a wide range of respondents, focus groups and interview questionnaires for the study, which should be approved in advance by the DRC. This will allow for the collection of qualitative and quantitative data to highlight the current stigma problem in Ukraine as well as the needs and barriers in access to rights and linkage with stigmatisation and discrimination
Data analysis. Analyse data collected from surveys, interviews, and assessments to identify trends, patterns, and key themes. Conduct a quantitative and qualitative analysis of the current state of stigmatisation of persons with disabilities in Ukraine;
Benchmarking and best practices. Conduct a benchmarking analysis comparing stigma reduction practices in Ukraine with the best international practices. Identify successful models and initiatives from other countries that can be adapted to reduce stigma and discrimination against persons with disabilities;
Recommendations. Based on the findings incl. identified needs and barriers as well as gaps in legislation, provide practical recommendations to reduce stigma and discrimination in Ukraine and improve societal attitudes towards persons with disabilities, with a particular focus on explosive ordnance victims. Prioritise the recommendations based on their feasibility, impact and potential challenges. Propose strategies for implementing the recommended changes, including timelines and resource requirements. Also, provide practical recommendations for the development and implementation of advocacy and media campaigns aimed at increasing the inclusiveness of the population and reducing the level of stigmatisation of persons with disabilities in various spheres of life;
Reporting. Prepare an inception report describing the proposed methodology, tools and work plan (to be approved by DRC). Submit an interim report summarising initial results and observations for DRC feedback. Prepare a comprehensive final report that includes a detailed analysis, identified areas for improvement and a roadmap for reducing stigma against persons with disabilities;
Presentation. Present findings and recommendations to key stakeholders, DRC teams and relevant employee groups and potentially external stakeholders (e.g. in the Victim Assistance Working Group). Facilitate a discussion to gather feedback and ideas from stakeholders;
The consultant will be required to prepare a detailed methodology and work plan indicating how
the objectives of the project will be achieved, and the support required from DRC.
6. Deliverables
Phase 1: Kick-off
- Expected Deliverables:
- Work plan (to be approved by DRC)
- Methodology and other relevant documents/plans/questionnaires (in English and Ukrainian, to be approved by DRC)
- Inception report (to be submitted to DRC)
- Indicative Description of Tasks:
- Agree on a work plan with DRC
- Develop methodology, documents, plans, and questionnaires in both English and Ukrainian
- Submit the inception report to DRC
- Maximum Expected Timeframe:
- Within max. three weeks of the start of the contract
Phase 2: Research and Data Collection
- Expected Deliverables:
- Data collection (interviews with target audience representatives, focus group discussions, desk review, etc.)
- Interim report (summarizing progress, status, and initial findings to be submitted to DRC)
- Indicative Description of Tasks:
- Conduct data collection through various methods such as interviews, focus groups, and desk review
- Submit the interim report to DRC
- Maximum Expected Timeframe:
- Within max. ten weeks of completion of Phase 1
Phase 3: Recommendations and Technical Documentation
- Expected Deliverables:
- Practical recommendations (document aimed at reducing stigma and improving public attitudes towards persons with disabilities, focusing on victims of explosive ordnance)
- Strategies for implementing the recommended changes, including timelines and resource requirements
- Practical recommendations for media advocacy and awareness-raising campaigns for inclusion and reduced stigma
- Indicative Description of Tasks:
- Provide practical recommendations to reduce stigma in Ukraine and improve attitudes towards persons with disabilities, especially victims of explosive ordnance
- Offer strategies for implementing these recommendations (including timelines and resources)
- Provide recommendations on advocacy campaigns to increase inclusivity and reduce stigma
- Maximum Expected Timeframe:
- Within max. three weeks of completion of Phase 2
Phase 4: Final Documentation
- Expected Deliverables:
- Final report (to be approved by DRC)
- Edited and finalized draft (incorporating feedback/comments from DRC)
- Presentation of findings and relevant data in a format to be confirmed by DRC
- Indicative Description of Tasks:
- Develop the final report and submit it for approval by DRC
- Edit and finalize the draft based on feedback and comments from DRC
- Prepare and deliver a presentation of the findings and other relevant data
- Maximum Expected Timeframe:
- Within max. three weeks of completion of Phase 3
All results must be sent to DRC by e-mail in English and Ukrainian. All written results are subject to review and approval by DRC. Therefore, the contractor(s) is/are expected to provide documents and responses to letters and comments and reflect relevant changes in all of the above results before they are considered final. The contract will have a duration of up to 5 months, beginning from the moment of signing the contract (it’s beneficial if the project can be delivered in a shorter timeframe). The schedule will be adjusted according to the final plan of the consultant’s work.
7. Duration, timeline, and payment
The total expected duration to complete the assignment will be no more than 5 months.
8. Proposed Composition of Team
Not specified. The consultant/consulting company can propose a team at their discretion.
9. Eligibility, qualification, and experience required
To ensure the successful completion of a stigmatization needs assessment for people with disabilities and EO victims, the consultant or firm should have the following qualifications and experience:
Essential:
Academic qualifications:
– A Bachelor’s degree in Law for at least one proposed team member and for the individual consultant, as well as Bachelor’s degree(s) in Diversity and Inclusion, Psychology, Sociology, Education, Analytics or related field(s) for the proposed team leader/project manager or at least 50% of the team (for consulting company)
Professional experience:
- Minimum 5 years of proven experience in conducting needs assessments or similar organisational assessments, as well as surveys.
Additional requirements:
Experience and expertise:
Expertise in diversity and inclusion: Demonstrated experience for at least 5 years in the field of diversity, equality and inclusion, with a thorough understanding of best practices, trends and challenges in addressing discrimination and stigma against persons with disabilities on explosive ordnance victims.
Proven experience in needs assessments and surveys: Proven experience in conducting needs assessments or similar organisational assessments for at least 5 years, as well as surveys, preferably with a focus on disability stigma.
Proven experience in data collection in Ukraine : Previous experience with data collection in Ukraine
Proven experience in analysing the national and international legal framework on the rights of people with disabilities: Previous experience in analysing the national and international legal framework affecting the rights of persons with disabilities and explosive ordnance victims, and experience in identifying legal needs and barriers to accessing the rights of persons with disabilities and explosive ordnance victims
Knowledge and skills:
Research and analytical skills: Strong research and analytical skills to collect and interpret data, identify trends and draw meaningful conclusions from a variety of information sources.
Stakeholder engagement: Demonstrated ability to interact effectively with a variety of stakeholders, including persons with disabilities, their families, healthcare professionals, educators, employers, etc.
Knowledge of the legal and regulatory framework: In-depth knowledge of Ukrainian legislation on the rights of people with disabilities.
Cultural competence and sensitivity: Demonstrated sensitivity to diversity and inclusion issues in a different contexts.
Excellent communication skills: Excellent written and verbal communication skills to convey complex information in a clear and understandable manner and to facilitate discussions with diverse groups.
Confidentiality and ethics: Commitment to maintaining confidentiality and adherence to ethical standards in the handling of sensitive data and information.
Professional certificates: Any relevant professional certifications or memberships in organisations that demonstrate expertise in diversity and inclusion.
Language skills: knowledge of Ukrainian and English.
10. Technical supervision
The selected consultant will work under the supervision of the DRC HDP Programme Manager and DRC HDP VA Specialists.
11. Location and support
The DRC Ukraine country office is in Kyiv. The Consultant will provide her/his own computer and mobile telephone. The consultant will comply with all applicable DRC safety rules throughout their work in-country.
12. Travel
The evaluation will take place in Ukraine. For international experts, a tourist visa to Ukraine is valid for up to three months and is the responsibility of the consultant. A longer-term (work) visa cannot be provided. Consultants must include all visa, travel-related, and other costs in their financial bid.
13. Submission process
According to the Invitation letter RFP-UKR-00341868.
14. Evaluation of bids
Please refer to the Invitation letter RFP-UKR-00341868.
How to apply
Interested consultants need to submit a request for the tender documents via email to lina.chaplynska@drc.ngo.
1. RFP Published
- Date: March 27, 2025
2. Pre-bid Technical Meeting
- Date: April 04, 2025
- Time: 12:00 PM UTC / 02:00 PM Kyiv time
- Action: Interested suppliers need to confirm participation via email to ukr-procurement@drc.ngo before the close of business on April 03, 2025.
3. Closing Date for Clarifications
- Date: April 07, 2025
4. Closing Date and Time for Receipt of Bids/Proposals
- Date: April 11, 2025
- Time: 10:00 AM UTC / 12:00 PM Kyiv time
5. Tender Opening Location
- On-site Bid Opening: Will be held at the specified DRC address above.
- Online Bid Opening: A link will be provided for suppliers who express interest in attending the online bid opening. Details can be checked in Section XVIІ.
6. Tender Opening Date and Time
- Date: April 11, 2025
- Time: 01:00 PM UTC / 03:00 PM Kyiv time
7. Tender E-mail Address
- Email: tender.ukr@drc.ngo
