Im September 2025 hatten wir die Ehre, die ukrainische Delegation zur 62. Jahreskonferenz der International Association of Women Police (IAWP)…
Our projects in Ukraine
Empowering Ukraine’s Security Institutions
We enhance Ukraine’s security institutions through comprehensive projects focused on gender equality, modernizing law enforcement, countering organized crime, and strengthening explosive ordnance disposal capabilities.
Our Focus
Building Resilience and Promoting Inclusivity Across Ukraine’s Security Frameworks
The GS-Foundation is committed to strengthening Ukraine’s security institutions during these challenging times. Our projects focus on advancing gender equality, combating organized crime, improving IOD capabilities, and enhancing the operational readiness of the National Guard.
Through specialized training, strategic reforms, and cutting-edge technology, we work closely with Ukrainian authorities and international partners to build resilient, inclusive, and efficient security frameworks.
Our goal is to foster public trust, promote stability, and contribute to a safer Ukraine aligned with European standards.
Table of Contents
CivSec-UA: Strengthening Knowledge and Resilience of Civil Security Authorities in Ukraine
Project Overview
- Goal: Strengthening Ukraine’s security authorities in the long term through structural development, knowledge transfer, and improved self-protection, thereby supporting EU integration and enhancing public safety.
- Duration: 2025 – 2027
- Comissioning Party: German Federal Foreign Office (GFFO)
- Beneficiaries: Civil security authorities and the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Ukraine
- Status: Ongoing
Why it Matters
Ukraine’s civil security authorities face extraordinary challenges as a result of Russia’s full-scale invasion. Officers are tasked with evacuations, humanitarian support, and crisis response under constant threat. The risks posed by landmines, unexploded ordnance, and air strikes underline the need for stronger self-protection and more resilient institutions.
At the same time, organized criminal networks exploit wartime vulnerabilities, especially in border areas, adding pressure through cybercrime, corruption, and transnational crime. Strengthening Ukraine’s civil security sector is therefore critical not only for immediate safety but also for long-term stability and EU integration.
Our Activities
Political Level
- Supporting the stabilisation of security structures and reinforcing public trust in democracy and rule of law.
- Facilitating cooperation formats to strengthen resilience and protect the EU’s external borders.
Institutional Level
- Building sustainable structures in the Ministry of Internal Affairs and partner agencies through knowledge transfer and best practice exchange.
- Enhancing responsiveness and effectiveness via capacity building and international learning opportunities.
Partnership Level
- Promoting cooperation between Ukrainian institutions and international partners.
- Encouraging joint approaches to improve coordination and accountability.
Operational Level
- Delivering training on investigation, cybercrime, organised crime, and anti-corruption.
- Providing protective gear such as vests, helmets, medical kits, and demining suits.
- Strengthening self-protection and crisis preparedness to reduce casualties and enhance motivation of officers.
Goals and Impact
CivSec-UA builds on earlier cooperation with the National Guard and now supports the National Police, the State Bureau of Investigation, the Ministry of Internal Affairs and other civil security institutions.
By combining training, provision of protective equipment, and international exchange, the project strengthens Ukraine’s civil security sector, improves self-protection, and builds public trust. It fosters democratic accountability, supports reform, and aligns Ukrainian institutions with European standards.
Ultimately, CivSec-UA contributes to a modernised and resilient civil security system that safeguards citizens, reinforces democratic development, and advances Ukraine’s integration into the European community.
EQUALFORCE: Promoting Gender Equality and Women in Security Services in Ukraine and Moldova
Project Overview
- Goal: Strengthen gender equality within the security agencies of Ukraine and Moldova by enhancing their capacity to address gender-based violence, integrating women into leadership roles, and fostering a culture of inclusivity and cooperation.
- Duration: 2024– 2025
- Comissioning Party: German Federal Foreign Office (GFFO)
- Beneficiaries: Ministries of Interior and Security Services in Ukraine and Moldova, Civil Society Organisations
- Status: Ongoing
Why it Matters
Gender equality in security services is crucial for promoting sustainable peace, human security, and democratic development. In Ukraine and Moldova, efforts to align with EU standards necessitate reform processes that integrate gender perspectives in decision-making and institutional practices.
In Ukraine, the war has highlighted gender-specific challenges, such as discrimination and inequalities, both within the security sector and the civilian population. Addressing these challenges is essential for creating a resilient and inclusive security framework. Moldova, building on earlier project successes, aims to deepen its reform efforts to ensure a gender-sensitive security sector that aligns with European aspirations.
By tackling systemic barriers, improving working conditions for women, and addressing sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV), the project contributes to stronger, more equitable institutions capable of fostering public trust and stability.
Our Activities
Building on previous initiatives, the EQUALFORCE project supports Ukraine and Moldova through targeted actions at multiple levels:
Political Level
- Strengthening networks and dialogues on Women, Peace & Security (WPS) and security sector reform (SSR) among national and regional actors.
- Promoting local ownership of gender-sensitive reforms and sharing best practices to combat discrimination and SGBV.
Institutional Level
- Building capacities within state security institutions to integrate gender equality in policy and practice.
- Supporting reforms to increase women’s leadership opportunities and decision-making roles in the security sector.
Partnership Level
- Encouraging collaboration between law enforcement agencies and civil society to enhance trust and accountability.
- Developing synergies between the GS-Foundation and international organisations for coordinated efforts.
Operational Level
- Delivering training programmes on investigating SGBV, gender equality, and leadership for security personnel.
- Providing technical assistance, including gender-appropriate uniforms, family-friendly workspaces, and specialized interview facilities.
- Hosting roundtable discussions to share knowledge and best practices on gender-responsive security sector reform.
Goals and Impact
The EQUALFORCE project aspires to transform security institutions in Ukraine and Moldova into models of gender-sensitive, inclusive governance capable of addressing complex societal challenges. By advancing women’s leadership, addressing sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV), and embedding a gender perspective into institutional frameworks, the initiative strengthens operational efficiency and fosters accountability within security services.
This approach builds trust between law enforcement agencies and the communities they serve, creating safer and more cohesive societies. Furthermore, the project supports Ukraine and Moldova in aligning with European Union standards for gender equality and democratic governance, advancing their aspirations for closer European integration.
Ultimately, EQUALFORCE contributes to the development of inclusive and resilient security systems that not only enhance stability but also promote sustainable peace, equality, and long-term development across the region.
2025
Improving the Capabilities of the Ukrainian Civil Security Authorities in Preventing and Combating Crime (NPU)
Project Overview
- Goal: Strengthen the resilience of Ukrainian civil security authorities, particularly the National Police of Ukraine (NPU), and support Ukraine’s EU integration by enhancing investigative and management capacities in the context of war crimes and organized crime.
- Duration: 2024 – 2025
- Commissioning Party: German Federal Foreign Office (GFFO)
- Beneficiaries: National Police of Ukraine (NPU), Ministry of Interior of Ukraine (MIA), Civil Security Institutions
- Status: Ongoing
Why it Matters
The ongoing war in Ukraine poses unprecedented challenges for civil security authorities, who are already operating under extreme conditions. The invasion and ongoing conflict have led to a breakdown of infrastructure, widespread displacement, and increasing social issues such as domestic violence and war crimes. Additionally, the contamination of vast areas with landmines and unexploded ordnance (UXO) further compounds the difficulties faced by Ukrainian authorities.
Ukraine’s security institutions are overstretched, yet they are tasked with maintaining public order and safety amidst wartime conditions. Organized criminal activities, especially in border regions, exploit these vulnerabilities, and war-related trauma has increased the demand for forensic and investigative expertise. Addressing these challenges and supporting Ukraine’s civil security authorities is crucial for maintaining law and order while advancing the country’s progress towards EU integration and international standards of governance.
Our Activities
To address critical challenges in law enforcement and security caused by the ongoing war, this project focuses on implementing targeted activities to enhance the effectiveness and resilience of Ukraine’s civil security institutions.
Political Level
- Strengthening the resilience of the NPU and other security institutions to ensure the safety of Ukrainian citizens amidst the ongoing conflict.
- Facilitating and enhancing cooperation between the Ukrainian Ministry of Interior (MIA) and international partners to align efforts and share expertise.
Institutional Level
- Promoting and enhancing existing platforms, networks, and dialogues to foster collaboration among Ukrainian government agencies.
- Supporting institutional reforms within the NPU to ensure sustainable development of security structures.
Partnership Level
- Facilitating mutual learning through reciprocal expert exchanges between Ukrainian and German law enforcement agencies.
- Promoting synergies between international partners to foster equitable partnerships, enhancing capabilities and professional exchange.
Operational Level
- Providing specialized training to further professionalize investigative skills in areas such as war crime investigation, forensic methodologies, and combating organized crime.
- Equipping the NPU with advanced forensic, digital, and technical tools, as well as protective equipment, to improve operational effectiveness and ensure the safety of officers on duty.
Goals and Impact
This initiative aims to significantly enhance the capabilities of the Ukrainian National Police and other civil security institutions, ensuring they are better prepared to address wartime challenges. By strengthening investigative techniques, leadership, and operational readiness, the project will contribute to enhanced safety and security for Ukrainian citizens during the ongoing conflict.
Additionally, it will increase investigative capacity, particularly in relation to war crimes and organized crime, and improve management and coordination within the NPU. The project will also focus on improving forensic, digital, and technical capabilities, enabling thorough investigations and successful prosecutions.
By fostering close cooperation between Ukrainian and German law enforcement agencies and international stakeholders, the project will help maintain law and order, mitigate crime, and advance Ukraine’s EU integration goals..
Projects Completed
Secure MU: Enhancing Security Through IOD in Moldova and Ukraine
Secure MU: Enhancing Security Through IOD in Moldova and Ukraine
Project Overview
- Goal: Strengthen the capabilities of security authorities in Moldova and Ukraine in explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) to mitigate threats, improve responder safety, and align operations with rule-of-law principles.
- Duration: 2024
- Commissioning Party: German Federal Foreign Office (GFFO)
- Beneficiaries: National Police and National Guard in Ukraine
- Status: Finished
Why it Matters
Moldova and Ukraine face critical challenges from mines and explosive remnants of war, which pose significant risks to civilians, hinder economic development, and strain security institutions.
In Moldova, mines from the 1990s conflict, particularly in the Transnistria region, continue to endanger local populations and obstruct economic progress. The country’s explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) capabilities are limited, requiring urgent investment to effectively address these threats.
Ukraine, heavily affected by ongoing Russian aggression, is now the most mined country in the world, with areas twice the size of Austria contaminated. By early 2024, over 1,100 civilians had lost their lives to mines. These explosive hazards exacerbate the humanitarian crisis and create long-term barriers to economic recovery and social development.
Given their shared geography and operational similarities, both countries have an opportunity to collaborate on EOD advancements. International support and cross-border knowledge exchange are essential to mitigating these threats, protecting lives, and restoring regional security.
Our Activities
Expanding EOD Capacities in Moldova
This component focuses on enhancing Moldova’s National Police capabilities in explosive ordnance disposal, building on assessments and groundwork established in 2023. Activities include:
- Delivering advanced EOD training, including first-aid courses tailored for handling explosives.
- Participating in international platforms, such as the BKA Symposium, to foster knowledge exchange.
- Hosting regional workshops to deepen technical expertise and promote collaboration.
- Procuring a tactical robot (aunav.NEO HD) to enhance operational efficiency and safety.
- Updating assessments to refine strategic planning for future interventions.
Strengthening EOD Capacities in Ukraine
This component supports Ukraine’s National Guard by addressing the acute challenges posed by ongoing conflict and explosive threats. Activities include:
- Conducting a detailed needs assessment to evaluate current EOD capacities and gaps.
- Providing advanced training in risk assessment, detection, and the safe disposal of explosives.
- Facilitating joint training sessions with Moldovan counterparts to promote regional expertise-sharing.
- Procuring specialized protective gear, including demining suits (CLDS 450) and advanced helmets (DHV6.4).
These outputs aim to establish well-equipped, highly skilled EOD units in both countries, ensuring readiness to address explosive threats and improve civilian safety.
Goals and Impact
The SECURE-MU project aims to significantly strengthen the explosive ordnance disposal capabilities in Moldova and Ukraine, contributing to the safety of civilians and the stability of the region. By enhancing the technical and operational skills of EOD units, the project will ensure that these teams are well-equipped to effectively address the growing threats posed by mines and unexploded ordnance.
In Moldova, the project will help create a more robust and responsive EOD capacity, enabling quicker and more effective responses to explosive threats. This will enhance public safety, support regional stability, and contribute to Moldova’s broader security objectives, including European integration.
For Ukraine, the project addresses the urgent need for specialized EOD training and equipment to cope with the severe mine contamination caused by the ongoing conflict. By strengthening Ukraine’s ability to clear mines and secure affected areas, the project will play a critical role in protecting civilian lives, enabling the return of displaced populations, and facilitating long-term recovery and development.
Overall, the project will have a lasting impact on the security and well-being of both countries, providing them with the necessary resources, knowledge, and operational capacity to confront explosive threats, improve humanitarian conditions, and foster greater international cooperation in addressing common security challenges.
Strengthening Ukraine's National Guard: Enhancing Internal Security Amid Conflict
Secure MU: Enhancing Security Through Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) in Moldova and Ukraine
Project Overview
- Goal: Strengthen the Ukrainian National Guard’s (NGU) internal security capabilities in response to the ongoing Russian invasion
- Duration: 2024
- Partners: Ukrainian Ministry of Internal Affairs and the National Guard of Ukraine.
- Status: Finished
Why it Matters
The ongoing war in Ukraine has created immense challenges for the country’s security forces, particularly the National Guard. These challenges are compounded by the ongoing conflict, which has strained resources, and the pervasive threat posed by criminal organizations, war crimes, and organized crime. Ukraine faces immense internal security threats ranging from terrorism, organized crime, and the use of landmines, to human trafficking and other illegal activities exacerbated by the war. The need for a strong, capable, and well-equipped National Guard is critical for maintaining public safety, facilitating the return of displaced populations, and rebuilding the country’s legal and enforcement systems.
The Ukrainian National Guard plays a crucial role not only in defending the country against external threats but also in restoring law and order in liberated areas. Strengthening the NGU’s capacity is essential for tackling organized crime, addressing corruption, and ensuring the safety of Ukrainian citizens.Our Activities
Our Acitivities
To support the NGU in addressing internal security challenges, the following activities will be implemented:
Medical Support: Procurement of a medical complex for NGU units, which will be operated under the Ministry of Internal Affairs to provide advanced medical care and treatment for personnel involved in law enforcement and security operations.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Acquisition of 2,700 helmets and 2,700 protective vests to ensure the safety of NGU personnel and enable them to carry out their duties in high-risk environments.
Communication Systems: Provision of communication technologies that will integrate existing radio systems and enhance coordination between NGU units, ensuring effective communication during operations.
Support for Law Enforcement Units: Strengthening the technical capabilities of NGU units responsible for law enforcement tasks, enabling them to more effectively address organized crime, terrorism, and other security threats.
Goals and Impact
The goal of this project is to enhance the capacity of the Ukrainian National Guard to respond effectively to the challenges posed by the ongoing Russian invasion. By strengthening the operational readiness of NGU units through targeted technical support and equipping them with necessary tools, the project aims to improve public safety, particularly in liberated areas and near conflict zones. These efforts will facilitate the safe return of displaced populations and contribute to the long-term stability of Ukraine.
The project will provide NGU units with advanced protective equipment, such as helmets and bulletproof vests, ensuring the safety of personnel in high-risk environments. Furthermore, the establishment of a medical complex for immediate care and treatment, alongside improved communication systems, will enhance operational efficiency, mobility, and coordination within the National Guard. These measures will help maintain law and order, strengthen cooperation with other security agencies, and improve the overall security situation, providing a foundation for rebuilding and securing liberated territories.
Ultimately, the project will significantly contribute to the resilience of Ukraine’s internal security forces, supporting their critical role in defending the country, maintaining public order, and advancing Ukraine’s long-term security goals in the context of the ongoing conflict. The initiative also supports the broader aim of ensuring Ukraine’s capacity to uphold rule-of-law principles, contributing to the country’s future stability and recovery.
2024
Our dedicated team
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