Mainstreaming gender in governance and public discourse

A shift has occurred from marginalisation of gender issues to the legitimisation of core concepts and tools among a broader range of actors. An additional marker is the increasing use of gender-sensitive language and feminised professional titles in public communication by officials.

Adoption of the State Strategy for Ensuring Equal Rights and Opportunities for Women and Men until 2030

This established the need for a unified state policy aimed at ensuring equal rights and opportunities across all spheres of society.

Establishment of an operational institutional mechanism for ensuring equal rights and opportunities

Between 2018 and 2025, approaches, processes, and formats of cooperation were developed with central executive authorities, regional administrations, civil society, and development partners. The institution is perceived as a tangible governance and political lever, strengthening the legitimacy of gender policy, particularly at the local level.

Systemic strengthening of the legal and regulatory framework and implementation tools

The focus shifted from isolated documents to a more coherent system of strategies, programmes, action plans, and methodological guidance. A defining feature is participatory policymaking and a humancentred approach.

Ratification of the Istanbul Convention as a landmark legal development

Ratification of the Istanbul Convention as a landmark legal development. This milestone is linked to the existence of the institution and its coordination and advocacy role in cooperation with civil society and international partners.

The National Action Plan on UNSCR 1325 as an operational policy and coordination framework with a strengthened local dimension

Operational policy and coordination framework with strengthened local dimension. Transition from a general framework to instrument-based approach (indicators, coordination mechanisms, broader engagement of local authorities and CSOs). After 2022, adapted to wartime realities (transitional justice, recovery, resilience).

Prevention of and response to gender-based violence as one of the most institutionally structured policy areas

Alongside strengthened legal frameworks and expanded specialised services, systemic gaps remain, including insufficient comprehensive services – particularly in rural areas – as well as shortages of qualified professionals and high risks of burnout.

Rapid development of policy responses to conflict-related sexual violence (CRSV) and the establishment of an interagency support architecture for survivors.

Rapid development of policy responses and interagency support architecture for survivors. Coordinated response mechanisms (including international accountability), Interagency Working Group, dedicated legislation in 2024 (survivor status, interim reparations, damage registration). International advocacy for a survivor-centred approach and inclusion of survivors in global processes.

Gender-responsive recovery as a new practical policy framework

A shared language and toolkit for integrating gender into recovery processes have been developed. Institutional anchors include the Gender Mainstreaming and Inclusion Platform in Recovery, the Civil Society Advisory Panel, the “10 Blocks of Gender-Inclusive Recovery” framework, and the international Alliance for Gender-Responsive and Inclusive Recovery of Ukraine (URC 2024).

Institutionalisation of gender audits and territorial safety audits as governance practices

A key shift is the transition from one-off assessments to regular, cyclical audits and tracking of change over time.

Strengthened engagement of civil society and increased visibility of the women’s movement

Interaction has evolved from formal consultation to substantive participation of civil society organisations in policymaking and implementation. A partnership-based approach is seen as an important institutional practice that enhances both the quality of decisions and the public legitimacy of gender policy

Increased engagement of development partners in advancing gender equality

This includes their systematic involvement in implementing the Women, Peace and Security agenda (NAP 1325), supporting projects on prevention and response to CRSV, providing assistance to survivors, and strengthening civil society capacities.