Andriy Bilous, a lecturer at the Kyiv National University of Theater, Film and Television and a director, has responded for the first time to accusations of sexual harassment of female students. In response to inquiries from Hromadske journalists, he confirmed that he had filed a complaint with the police, who are currently handling the case. At the same time, Bilous refused to comment on the situation in more detail while the investigation is ongoing.
“I filed a report with the police, they are investigating. I will not comment while the investigation is ongoing,” he said in a short message via messenger.
The allegations against the professor came after several former female students at the university came forward with allegations of sexual harassment by Bilous. One of the girls described an incident in which the professor invited her into his office, where they engaged in unacceptable physical and emotional abuse. Another student said that Bilous demanded intimate photos of her and forced her into relationships that went beyond what was permissible.
The allegations began to emerge after 23-year-old student Sofia Sapozhnik first came forward with allegations of harassment that took place in 2020. She also spoke about other sexual advances from Bilous.
The university said it had contacted police to verify the information. However, the university has not received any complaints from students about Bilous' actions, raising further questions about the internal investigation and the administration's actions.
An initiative group of students and alumni continues to collect testimonies and intends to file a complaint with the police to defend the rights of the victims.
