The GS-Foundation, through its EQUALFORCE project, supported the participation of delegations from the Republic of Moldova and Ukraine in the 63rd Annual Training Conference of the International Association of Women Police (IAWP). Held under the theme “Women Leading Global Change”, the conference provided an international platform for professional exchange, networking and discussions on the future of policing and women’s leadership in law enforcement.
Promoting Women’s Leadership and International Cooperation
Supporting women in law enforcement is not only about advancing individual careers, but also about strengthening institutions, improving police responsiveness and contributing to safer communities.
The conference brought together law enforcement professionals from around the world to exchange operational experiences, strengthen international networks and explore innovative approaches to policing.
The programme addressed a wide range of topics closely aligned with EQUALFORCE’s objectives, including leadership development, Women, Peace and Security (WPS), community confidence, effective partnerships, prevention and intervention, emerging technologies and innovative policing practices.
For the delegations from Moldova and Ukraine, the conference offered valuable opportunities to gain new perspectives, share experiences and identify approaches that could be adapted to their respective institutions and communities.
Addressing Country-Specific Challenges in Moldova and Ukraine
While Moldova and Ukraine face different challenges, strengthening women’s roles and professional capacities in law enforcement remains an important priority in both countries.
In Moldova, the exchange directly complemented EQUALFORCE’s efforts to prevent and respond to domestic and gender-based violence. These activities focus on strengthening victim protection and improving institutional and operational responses to violence, contributing to more effective and victim-centred policing.
In Ukraine, participation supported the project’s work on community-oriented policing, prevention, resilience and the creation of safer environments for children and communities. The exchange also highlighted the essential contribution of women in law enforcement during Russia’s war against Ukraine and their role in shaping the country’s future security structures.
By engaging with international counterparts, participants from both countries were able to explore approaches relevant to their national contexts and identify opportunities for further institutional development.
Strengthening Professional Networks and Institutional Capacities
International professional networks play a particularly important role during periods of crisis and institutional transformation. They enable law enforcement professionals to exchange knowledge, compare operational approaches and establish lasting partnerships that extend beyond individual events.
For EQUALFORCE, promoting women in policing goes beyond increasing representation. It involves strengthening professional expertise, leadership skills and institutional influence, while enhancing the capacity of police organisations to respond effectively to the needs of the communities they serve.
The conference provided an opportunity for the delegations to contribute their own experiences and perspectives to international discussions while gaining insights into practices and developments in policing worldwide.
Supporting Sustainable Change in Law Enforcement
Through its support for the participation of Moldovan and Ukrainian delegations, the GS-Foundation reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening women’s professional development and leadership in law enforcement.
By facilitating international knowledge exchange and professional cooperation, EQUALFORCE contributes to building more inclusive, responsive and resilient police institutions.
The GS-Foundation remains committed to supporting sustainable institutional development and strengthening the role of women in shaping the future of policing in Moldova and Ukraine.
