The full‑scale Russian invasion has led to massive destruction, millions of internally displaced people, and a deep humanitarian crisis. Women and girls make up the majority of those in need of assistance and are especially vulnerable to poverty, unemployment, and increased care responsibilities. At the same time, reports show a rise in conflict‑related sexual violence, domestic violence, and heightened risk of human trafficking.

Many local communities lack services for protection and support, and women’s participation in reconstruction processes remains low – despite national plans and international commitments.

For Ukraine to achieve an inclusive, democratic, and sustainable future, women must have a seat at the table – both locally and nationally. FOKUS cooperates with the Ukrainian Women’s Fund (UWF) and La Strada Ukraine (LSU) to ensure that women’s voices and needs are integral to the country’s recovery.

Together with UWF, we strengthen local women’s organizations in 9 regions (oblasts), document violations of women’s rights, and help ensure that more women participate in and influence decision‑making processes related to security, reconstruction, and gender equality.

Women and girls are affected differently in war and conflict – and the war in Ukraine has had devastating consequences. Domestic violence, sexual violence, and exploitation are increasing, while support services are weakened in areas affected by hostilities. The risk of human trafficking grows when women are left on their own, lose work, income, and security. Many women in small communities lack access to shelters, legal aid, and health services.

LSU’s national hotline is one of the few safe entry points for help, and the need for support is greater than ever.
FOKUS and our partners work to ensure that women and girls are safe – and that authorities take violence and discrimination seriously in the reconstruction process.

FOKUS supports local organizations that provide women with access to protection, counselling, legal assistance, and psychosocial support. We also strengthen prevention, training, and advocacy efforts at both local and national levels.
Through the regional coalitions, we help ensure that women influence the design and implementation of local reconstruction plans — and that women’s needs and perspectives are not forgotten as everyday life is rebuilt.

The war has made many women the primary providers for their families. At the same time, many are left without work or opportunities. FOKUS therefore supports local initiatives that provide women with training, access to income‑generating opportunities, and the possibility to start or rebuild their own businesses.
Economic security strengthens women’s freedom and makes them less vulnerable to violence and exploitation.

In collaboration with UWF and LSU, FOKUS has launched extensive efforts to:

Ukraine’s women’s movement already plays a crucial role in sustaining local communities during wartime. With support, resources, and international cooperation, they can become decisive in how the country is rebuilt — safer, more just, and more inclusive than before.