EU supports dialogue on mainstreaming gender into the Ukrainian National Platform’s operational framework

Gender equality and human rights have been successfully mainstreamed into the 2026–2027 operational framework of the Ukrainian National Platform (UNP) of the Eastern Partnership Civil Society Forum, following a two-day strategic dialogue (18–19 March 2026) organised by the EU4GenderEquality Reform Helpdesk project, funded by the European Union and implemented by NIRAS.

The event brought together representatives of several UNP member organisations to discuss the challenges of implementing gender policies and adopting gender-sensitive approaches in the context of the ongoing war and national recovery. Participants explored advocacy tools available within the frameworks of the European Union and the Eastern Partnership. They exchanged insights and practical methodologies for integrating gender policies into organisational structures – advancing localised solutions tailored to Ukraine’s unique socio-political environment. 

Throughout the dialogue, the Ukrainian National Platform reaffirmed its commitment to gender equality as a fundamental principle in all its activities. The presentation and review of the platform’s Gender Equality Policy for 2026–2027 marked a pivotal moment during the dialogue. This enabled participants to move beyond theoretical discussions to develop concrete mechanisms for applying the policy in their programmes and advocacy initiatives.

The dialogue concluded with the creation of a comprehensive roadmap for implementing the Ukrainian National Platform’s Gender Equality Policy. By fostering a collaborative environment for open dialogue, the event established a unified vision and a foundational framework for sustainable institutional change within the Ukrainian National Platform. 

“The dialogue brought participants together around a shared vision: gender equality must be a fundamental principle in all UNP processes and decisions,” stated one participant. “It was an open and constructive conversation that enhanced our common understanding that equality, accountability, and justice should be at the core of all decision-making.”

Martha Chumalo, Coordinator of the UNP Working Group, emphasised the importance of hosting and supporting such events, particularly when they are held in person. She noted that such events enable representatives from all UNP Working Groups to become familiar with recently adopted EU documents on gender equality, as well as to discuss strategic steps to implement the UNP Gender Equality Policy. 

The expert assistance provided for the Ukrainian National Platform is part of the EU4Gender Equality Reform Helpdesk’s support for gender equality and women’s empowerment across the Eastern Neighbourhood region, including in Ukraine. 

Find out 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