“For the police, gender equality and non-discrimination policies are not merely legal requirements, but a daily practice of respecting human dignity. Our task is to ensure that everyone, regardless of gender, age or life circumstances, feels that they are treated fairly, safe and protected. Trust in the police begins with these principles - and it is this trust that we must strengthen every day, through leading by example.” - Ruslan Horiachenko, Colonel of Police, Head of the Department of the Main Inspection and Human Rights Compliance of the National Police of Ukraine

On 19-20 August 2026, 26 officers of the National Police of Ukraine increased their competencies in gender equality and gender mainstreaming.

Based on the publication “Gender mainstreaming in action: A handbook for local gender related coordinators in Ukraine”, the training focused on European and international standards, gender equality, gender mainstreaming and non-discrimination.

Participants explored how a gender-sensitive and non-discriminatory approach can influence the way police services are delivered, how officers communicate with people in different life circumstances, and how potential barriers or unequal treatment can be identified and addressed. They can now share the knowledge gained with their colleagues, helping to embed these principles more consistently across the police force.

This event was organised in joint efforts with the Department of General Inspection and Human Rights Compliance of the National Police of Ukraine, within the framework of the project Combating Violence against Women in Ukraine - Phase III (COVAW-III) which is part of the Council of Europe Action Plan for Ukraine “Resilience, Recovery and Reconstruction” 2023-2026.

See more:

• Publication: “Gender mainstreaming in action: A handbook for local gender related coordinators in Ukraine” EN UA
• Website. Council of Europe project Combating Violence against Women in Ukraine - Phase III (COVAW-III)