As a result of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the lives of millions of Ukrainian citizens have been altered. During times of economic hardship, women are compelled to take on more responsibility for the financial security of their families.

In this context, UNFPA, the United Nations Population Fund with the support of the European Union (EU) is launching a new project aimed at enhancing the economic capacity of vulnerable women who have suffered from the war, particularly internally displaced persons (IDPs), women with disabilities, and those affected by gender-based violence.

As part of the project, the establishment of 20 Employment Support Offices is envisaged, covering at least 50 territorial communities in Ukraine. Within these offices, women will be able to acquire practical vocational skills free of charge, receive assistance in job searching, and obtain starter kits to initiate their own economic activities. This will aid them in achieving economic independence, expanding their rights and opportunities, thereby preventing gender-based violence and mitigating its consequences. Economic dependence on the perpetrator remains a significant factor that prevents women from breaking free from abusive relationships.

"Women’s economic empowerment is of outmost importance for the EU, especially in the current challenging situation in Ukraine. Employment opportunities for women contribute to their overall well-being in the long term along with  strengthening hromada’s development and cohesion. Individual success stories will unite into Ukraine’s recovery big picture", - emphasised the Sector Manager of Culture, Human Rights, Gender Equality, and National Minorities at the Delegation of the European Union to Ukraine, Tetiana Shulha.

"Before the onset of the war, statistics indicated that two-thirds of women and girls in Ukraine had experienced some form of gender-based violence during their lifetime. Unfortunately, this risk increases during times of conflict. Additionally, a significant number of women have become the primary or even sole breadwinners in their families, taking care of children and elderly family members. Many internally displaced women have lost their jobs. According to UN research, 44% of internally displaced women lack a stable income. Meanwhile, 71% of those who do not plan to return home in the near future express a desire to engage in economic activities. Therefore, expanding women's economic opportunities is a crucial task that deserves attention. The 'WE ACT II' project represents a significant step towards providing women in Ukraine with the resources to rebuild their lives and secure a better future for themselves and their families," - emphasised the acting representative of UNFPA, the United Nations Population Fund in Ukraine, Mustafa Elkanzi.

Reference information:

The "WE ACT II: Empowering Women and Their Opportunities" project is a continuation of the 20-month "WE ACT" program aimed at enhancing the capacity of local organizations to combat gender-based violence and promote gender equality in Ukraine, which was implemented by UNFPA, the United Nations Population Fund with financial support from the European Union. "WE ACT II" is a 15-month project that will contribute to expanding the economic opportunities for vulnerable women, with a particular focus on those residing in remote communities.

For further information, please, reach out to communication associate Daniel Yanova, yanova@unfpa.org