Women’s rights in Ukraine: Preventing violence and strengthening justice during war 

Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine has intensified risks of violence and discrimination for women and girls. Armed conflict often exacerbates existing inequalities, while displacement, insecurity, and pressure on institutions can increase the risk of gender-based and conflict-related sexual violence. Strengthening protection, prevention, and access to justice for survivors is therefore a crucial part of supporting human rights and democratic resilience during wartime. 

We work with partners and civil society organizations to prevent violence and ensure survivors can access legal support and protection. Our partner Women Lawyers Association JurFem strengthens access to justice for women affected by gender-based and conflict-related sexual violence through legal aid and support for survivors, as well as the capacity of lawyers and law students. 

We also focus on enhancing gender- and sexuality-sensitive approaches to documenting war crimes, ensuring that justice processes recognize and respond to the specific needs of survivors. 

Supporting women’s rights in times of war is about safeguarding dignity, preventing further harm, and maintaining accountability. By combining legal support, capacity building, and inclusive approaches to documentation, we help strengthen a resilient civil society that protects its most vulnerable members even under extraordinary pressure.