The GS-Foundation had the opportunity to support and help organise the 7th International Scientific and Practical Conference “Implementation of Gender Policy at the Current Stage of Development of the Security and Defence Sector: State, Problems, and Prospects” in collaboration with Ukrainian and international partners.
The event brought together representatives from the Ukrainian security and defence sector, international organisations, academia and civil society to discuss current challenges and future prospects for gender policy. The focus was on the institutional embedding of gender policy, leadership and career development, the implementation of the “Women, Peace and Security” agenda, the reintegration of veterans, and the prevention of gender-based violence.
First-time co-organisation by the GS-Foundation
For the first time, the conference was organised in collaboration with the GS-Foundation. The event was organised under the expert guidance of Dr Susanne Greiter, Senior Gender Advisor at the GS-Foundation and Head of the EqualForce project in Ukraine and Moldova.
Together with long-standing partners – including the Government Commissioner for Gender Policy of Ukraine, UN Women Ukraine, the Women’s Information and Advisory Centre, and the Ukrainian Association of Women in Law Enforcement – the GS-Foundation contributed to promoting professional exchange and the further development of gender-responsive reform approaches in the security sector.
International expertise for sustainable reforms
The GS-Foundation delegation brought international experience and perspectives on security sector reform to the discussions and exchanged views with representatives of state institutions, international organisations and academia.
In addition, renowned experts from Europe and North America presented their insights on gender mainstreaming, leadership culture and institutional reform processes. The diversity of the contributions highlighted the importance of international cooperation for the development of modern and inclusive security institutions.
Vigorous dialogue with over 150 participants
With more than 150 registered participants, the conference demonstrated the growing interest in gender-responsive reforms in the security and defence sectors. The event provided a forum for the exchange of best practices, the discussion of current challenges and the development of joint solutions.
At the conclusion, a conference resolution was adopted, setting out key recommendations for the further implementation of gender policy in the security sector. The academic papers will be published subsequently and made available on the National Academy’s website.
Our contribution to the future
The GS-Foundation remains committed to inclusive, resilient and democratic security institutions. Promoting gender equality is an essential component of sustainable security sector reforms. We look forward to working with our partners to advance the dialogue and support concrete changes that will contribute to greater equality, security and institutional strength in the long term.
