EU-supported training equips the National Police of Ukraine to advance gender equality

A practical training of trainers (ToT) workshop on ‘Integrating a Gender Perspective into Police Work’, held in Lviv, Ukraine, from 16 to 19 June, enhanced the capacities of Ukraine’s National Police to integrate a gender perspective into their activities and foster a culture of equal opportunities within law enforcement. Organised by the EU4Gender Equality Reform Helpdesk project, funded by the European Union and implemented by NIRAS, the training engaged 23 members of staff (13 women and 12 men) of the General Inspection and Human Rights Compliance Departments of the National Police from across the country. 

During the four-day training, participants deepened their understanding of gender equality issues and mastered cutting-edge adult learning methodologies. They learned how to conduct interactive training sessions, engage diverse audiences, and communicate complex topics effectively. 

The training focused on practical work, providing an opportunity for participants to take the lead in training modules, receive professional feedback from both trainers and peers, and enhance their skills in public speaking, group facilitation and organising learning environments. Topics covered included gender equality and inclusivity in law enforcement, overcoming stereotypes, upholding professional ethics, managing resistance to change, and effectively utilising outcomes.

“A modern police force must be open, professional, and responsive to the needs of every individual. Integrating a gender perspective is not just about upholding rights and ensuring equal opportunities; it also improves the quality of police services and fosters public trust,” said  Yulia Maligonova, Head of the Division for Monitoring Gender Equality and Non-Discrimination of the National Police of Ukraine. “This training has provided us with the practical tools needed to effectively share this knowledge with our colleagues and implement responsive approaches in our daily work.” 

This training is part of the EU4Gender Equality Reform Helpdesk project’s support for gender equality and women’s empowerment across the Eastern Neighbourhood region by mainstreaming gender equality across key sectors, including law enforcement. 

Learn more about the EU’s support for gender equality in the Eastern Neighbourhood region

• Factsheet on the EU4Gender Reform Helpdesk Phase II
• EU4Gender Equality Reform Helpdesk Phase II project page
• Gender Equality Library 
• EU4Gender Equality Reform Helpdesk Phase I project page