EAF Berlin at Cafe Kyiv

EAF co-founder Dr. Helga Lukoschat moderated the panel, which featured researcher Dr. Yuliia Siedaia, Mayor Nataliia Balasynovych, and Liliya Kislitsyna from the women's organization Smarta. The reality is clear: women in Ukraine are fighting on all fronts.

The immense dedication of Ukrainian women

They play a crucial role in the future, democracy, and freedom of Ukraine. They are advocating for gender equality through legal channels, fighting for greater political participation, and stepping in wherever support is needed—such as by campaigning for the necessity of women's shelters or organizing psychological support for families. "The role of women has become more significant, the demand for female leaders has increased, and women are taking on more and more responsibility overall," as Yuliia Siedaia emphasizes. Women's organizations like Liliya Kislitsyna's Smarta play a vital role.

A long road to gender equality in Ukraine

Civil society is standing together, yet it is also exhausted. The truth is that there are still many grievances that Ukrainian women are calling out. Liliya Kislitsyna points out, for example, that the military administration is heavily male-dominated, which makes the work more difficult for women. Other challenges include the low percentage of women in parliament. Families are suffering heavy losses and require psychological support, especially for returning family members.

Another major issue is the rise in domestic violence, creating an urgent need for women's shelters. Women must be involved in the reconstruction of Ukraine, and this requires the support of the European Parliament.

It also became clear that the war in Ukraine is a war for freedom and democracy in Europe as well. "We are Europeans," Nataliia Balasynovych asserts.

Strong, active women

It was great to be part of Cafe Kyiv—and it was inspiring! At EAF Berlin, one thing is clear: Ukraine continues to need all available support. And our commitment is especially dedicated to the women of Ukraine.