Gender Mainstreaming in EUAM’s Focus
August 07, 2024
On 6 August, Maura O’Sullivan, Deputy Head of the European Union Advisory Mission (EUAM) Ukraine, met with Kateryna Levchenko, Ukraine’s Governmental Commissioner for Gender Policy.
Maura O’Sullivan acknowledged the significant progress in Ukraine in gender mainstreaming and combating gender-based discrimination within the Civilian Security Sector (CSS) of Ukraine. “The commitment and exemplary leadership role of Kateryna Levchenko and her team ensures the promotion of gender equality in Ukraine,” said Maura O’Sullivan. She briefed the Commissioner on EUAM’s new mandate and its priorities for the next three years. While the Mission continues to implement its core mandate aimed at supporting deep and lasting CSS reform, it also supports its partners in responding to wartime challenges and post-war needs. Addressing conflict-related sexual violence (CRSV), a drastic consequence of Russia’s aggression against Ukraine, is an important part of the Mission’s work now.
The Deputy Head of the Mission noted that EUAM Ukraine will continue to cooperate with its partners on gender mainstreaming, particularly within the Overarching Strategy for the Reform of the entire Law Enforcement Sector. “A comprehensive gender approach and compliance with the principles of inclusion is a key element within EUAM’s advice and support on relevant reforms across the civilian security sector,” said Maura O’Sullivan.
Kateryna Levchenko expressed her gratitude for the Mission’s support in promoting gender equality in Ukraine and anticipated further fruitful cooperation. She provided an update on the development of the new Action Plan on Women, Peace, and Security, and current initiatives aimed at supporting survivors of CRSV. In this regard, she thanked the Mission for its assistance in implementing CRSV initiatives, particularly in capacity-building.
The meeting underscored the continued commitment of both parties to advance gender equality in Ukraine’s CSS and addressing war-related challenges, including support for the survivors of CRSV.
