THE ROLE OF INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF GENDER POLICY IN UKRAINE’S SECURITY AND DEFENCE SECTOR

Abstract

This article offers a comprehensive examination of the contribution of international organizations to the formation and implementation of gender policy within Ukraine’s security and defence sector under the conditions of full-scale Russian armed aggression and the ongoing deep transformation of the national legal and security architecture.

Special emphasis is placed on the normative, expert, financial, and educational assistance provided by the leading international actors: the United Nations (UN), the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), and the European Union (EU). The central focus of the research lies in the mechanisms through which international gender equality standards – particularly UN Security Council Resolution 1325 “Women, Peace and Security” and subsequent WPS agenda resolutions – are being implemented at the national level.

The study highlights the tangible results of this international engagement: the increased participation of women in military service and defence institutions, the creation of the gender adviser institution within the Armed Forces of Ukraine, the integration of gender perspectives into military education and professional training systems, and the adoption and regular updating of the National Action Plan on the implementation of UNSCR 1325.

Simultaneously, the article analyses persistent challenges in the implementation process, including entrenched patriarchal cultural stereotypes, low levels of gender awareness among military and civilian staff, a predominantly formal approach to meeting international commitments, and institutional obstacles that hinder genuine equality of opportunity.

It is concluded that international organizations serve as crucial catalysts in promoting gender policy within Ukraine’s security sector. However, the effective advancement of the gender mainstreaming approach demands not only formal compliance with international norms, but also the overcoming of profound institutional and socio-cultural barriers, enhanced monitoring, and sustained high-level political commitment at the national level.