As part of our EQUALFORCE project, which promotes gender equality in policing and security institutions in Moldova and Ukraine, we had the pleasure of facilitating a high-level exchange last week in Kyiv. A delegation from the Moldovan police visited Ukrainian partner institutions for a multi-day program.
One of the key outcomes of the visit was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the police academies of both countries. This marks a new level of cross-border cooperation for inclusive, gender-sensitive police training and institutional reform.
Kateryna Pavlichenko, Deputy Minister of Internal Affairs of Ukraine, also attended the event. Her presence highlighted the strong political support for gender equality in the country’s security sector.
Another key moment was the presentation of Ukraine’s specially developed protective vests for female officers. These vests, designed to improve fit, comfort, and operational safety, have become a source of pride in the country – and an example of how thoughtful design can enable real change.
EQUALFORCE is about more than dialogue. It’s about building real tools, partnerships, and policies that make law enforcement more inclusive, safe, and effective.
