On 31 March, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Mariana Betsa delivered remarks at the event “Local Women-Leaders Driving Change: Inclusive Peace and Local Recovery” organized by the Ukrainian Women’s Fund with the support of the Embassy of Canada to Ukraine. The event served as an important platform for discussing the role of women leaders in peacebuilding and promotion of gender equality in Ukraine.

In her address, the Ukrainian diplomat highlighted the importance of gender equality as a cornerstone of Ukraine’s societal resilience, particularly amidst the ongoing Russian aggression.

“Ukraine is actively integrating women’s leadership across all spheres of public life, from defence to economic development. Women’s leadership is a driving force for sustainable peace and recovery, and Ukraine continues to set an example by embedding gender-responsive approaches into resilience-building and recovery efforts amidst the war”, - Mariana Betsa stated.

The Deputy Minister urged participants to strengthen international cooperation and support women leaders in rebuilding and developing local communities across Ukraine.

Other speakers at the event included Government Commissioner for Gender Policy Kateryna Levchenko, Ambassador of Canada to Ukraine Natalka Cmoc, Ambassador of Japan to Ukraine Masashi Nakagome, UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Ukraine Matthias Schmale, human rights defender and Head of the Center for Civil Liberties Oleksandra Matviichuk, as well as foreign diplomats, representatives of international organizations, civil society, and experts.