STATEMENT

by Deputy Foreign Minister of Ukraine H.E. Ms. Mariana BETSA

at the General discussion of the 69^th Session 

of the Commission of the Status of Women (13 March 2025)

Chair,

The Beijing Platform for Action set a historic agenda for equality and women’s empowerment.

However, in the face of evolving global challenges, the situation of women and girls continues to demand urgent attention.

Achieving true gender equality is not just a moral imperative – it is essential for building resilient, just, and peaceful societies worldwide.

In conflict-affected countries, as Ukraine, the struggle for gender equality has become even more pressing. Women and girls bear the disproportionate burden of war. They face increased risks of displacement, sexual and gender-based violence, economic marginalization, and loss of access to essential services.

For over a decade Russian Federation's ongoing war of aggression has inflicted devastating human losses and triggered one of Europe’s largest displacement crises. Millions of women and girls have been forced to flee their homes or live in displacement, while thousands have been killed, raped or widowed. Constant attacks have forced women to give birth in bomb shelters, without electricity or heating.

Dear ladies and gentlemen, can you imagine giving birth under constant bombings and shellings.

These challenges only strengthen our resolve and commitment to gender equality. The Ukrainian government has made significant strides in advancing it, as well as in preventing gender-based violence and enhancing women's leadership.

The ratification of the Istanbul Convention marks a major milestone in strengthening legal protections against gender-based violence.

As part of Ukraine’s European integration process, we are also working to align our national legislation with EU gender equality standards.

Our commitment to the Women, Peace, and Security agenda remains steadfast. We are currently developing our National Action Plan for 2026-2030, prioritizing women's leadership, addressing conflict-related sexual violence, and embedding survivor-centered approaches across all sectors.

Women play a crucial role in Ukraine’s defense. Over 69,000 Ukrainian women serve on the front lines. Legal reforms ensure equal rights, career opportunities, and social protection for servicewomen.

Ukraine is working towards establishing also a comprehensive reparation mechanism for survivors of CRSV. We provide social, legal, and medical services and assistance.

Economic empowerment is also a priority. The National Strategy for Closing the Gender Pay Gap by 2030 has been introduced, alongside targeted grant programs supporting women entrepreneurs – including IDPs, CRSV survivors, and women veterans.

Ukraine’s reconstruction is not just about rebuilding infrastructure – it is also about creating a resilient society.

Investments in healthcare, psychosocial support, education, and economic empowerment programs must specifically address the unique challenges faced by women and girls in post-war Ukraine.

To ensure a gender-responsive recovery, we have established the Platform for Gender Mainstreaming and Inclusion in Recovery, integrating gender-sensitive approaches into the reconstruction process.

In conclusion, Ukraine is committed to setting a global example of gender-responsive and inclusive post-conflict recovery.

We firmly believe that once a just and lasting peace in Ukraine –rooted in the UN Charter – is achieved, Ukraine will not only rebuild but emerge as a key contributor, ensuring that gender equality remains a fundamental priority in policymaking.

We reiterate our call on the international community to intensify efforts to exert pressure on the Russian Federation to put an end to its genocidal war against a sovereign State.

Thank you.