In September 2025, we had the honour of accompanying the Ukrainian delegation to the 62nd Annual Conference of the International Association of Women Police (IAWP) in Glasgow. With more than 800 participants from 42 countries, the event was a global platform to recognise achievements, share experiences and strengthen international solidarity among women in policing.
Recognition on the Global Stage
The conference began with an extraordinary moment for Ukraine. On the very first day, three Ukrainian police officers received international awards:
Lieutenant Valeriia Bilenets received the Bravery Award for saving lives under bombardment.
Lieutenant Colonel Olha Zinchenko was honoured with the Community Service Award for her work in building trust between police and communities.
Captain Olena Stavytska received the Officer of the Year Award for her inspirational leadership and professionalism.
These recognitions highlighted the courage and resilience of Ukrainian police officers, who continue to serve their communities despite the challenges of war. For us, it was a moving moment to see their commitment acknowledged by an international audience.
Sharing Experience from Wartime Policing
Beyond the awards, the Ukrainian delegation also made a strong contribution to the professional dialogue at IAWP. Deputy Minister of Internal Affairs Kateryna Pavlichenko underlined the importance of this participation:
“For Ukraine, this event is not only about professional development, it is also an opportunity to share with the international community the unique experience of our police officers, gained during the war.” Investigator Inna Vlasova from Dnipropetrovsk region gave a powerful presentation on documenting war crimes, including murder, torture, crimes against children and sexual violence. She explained how Ukrainian investigators adapt forensic methods to wartime conditions, collect evidence under fire, and provide support to victims in some of the most difficult circumstances imaginable.
Her testimony reminded everyone present that policing is not only about maintaining order but also about securing justice and protecting human rights – even under the harshest realities of conflict.
A Message of Solidarity and Reform
For us, accompanying the Ukrainian delegation to Glasgow was more than a professional engagement. It was an opportunity to witness resilience and courage, and to support the international visibility of Ukrainian policing in a time of war.
The IAWP provided the stage where both recognition and professional exchange took place: awards for extraordinary service, and insights into how police can continue to serve communities under extreme conditions.
These moments reinforce what guides our work at the GS-Foundation: strengthening citizen-oriented and human rights–compliant policing, building trust through international partnerships, and combining global expertise with local ownership.
The Ukrainian delegation’s presence in Glasgow showed the world that even in war, professionalism and solidarity can prevail. Their achievements and their stories will continue to inspire international policing for years to come.
