Progress towards gender equality is a key marker of democratic transition. Since its independence, Ukrainian civil society has sought to strengthen the voices and capacities of groups pushing for equality and inclusion.
But Kyiv has a mixed track record on promoting gender balance in politics, ensuring economic empowerment, and protecting health and safety in family life. While economic inclusion is improving, the World Economic Forum’s Gender Gap Report 2021 ranks Ukraine 103rd in terms of political empowerment for women.
Russia’s aggression toward Ukraine also complicates attempts to overcome the latter’s longstanding structural problems and stereotypes. But it has led to concrete steps in creating new roles for women in the armed forces and boosting post-conflict assistance to veterans and their families.
Speakers describe ways that the state and civil society currently addresses gender inclusion, and discuss how empowering women can be achieved to increase the chance of success for Ukraine’s reforms.
