The war in Ukraine has left an indelible mark on its people, reshaping not only the physical but the social landscape by transforming roles and responsibilities within families. Over two million Ukrainians—primarily women and children—have fled their homeland, facing dangers such as human trafficking and exploitation along the way. Those who remain in Ukraine endure immense hardships, with the ongoing conflict stretching resources and tearing families apart. Yet, amidst this upheaval, Ukrainian women are stepping into new roles, shouldering responsibilities that challenge traditional gender norms and redefine family dynamics.

Women on the Front Lines—And Beyond

The war in Ukraine has increased female representation in the armed forces, with the proportion of women in the Ukrainian military rising from 15% pre-war to 23% in 2022. This surpasses female representation in many global armies, including the United States. Yet, beyond the battlefield, women are also filling critical societal roles as health workers, social workers, educators, and volunteers, maintaining the fragile social fabric of their communities. This transformation reflects how the necessity of wartime has brought about a broader societal shift in expectations and capacities. Historically, warfare has often led to significant shifts in gender roles within societies, as evidenced by various conflicts, including World War I (1914 to 1918) and the Spanish Civil War (1936 to 1939). These changes frequently arise from the need for women to fill roles traditionally held by men.

During World War I, for example, women took on jobs in factories, transportation, and other sectors critical to the war effort, contributing to the suffragette movement's momentum. The visibility and contributions of women in the workforce during this time helped to challenge existing gender norms and ultimately led to increased advocacy for women's rights, including the right to vote. Similarly, the Spanish Civil War saw women actively participating in combat and support roles, further redefining their societal roles. This involvement showcased their capabilities and highlighted the need for gender equality in the post-war period.

The ongoing war in Ukraine has indeed catalysed a significant transformation in women's roles within the workforce, particularly in traditionally male-dominated sectors such as construction and manufacturing. Before the conflict, only 48% of women over the age of 15 participated in the workforce, one of the lowest rates in Europe. However, the war prompted many women to step into roles in steel mills, factories, and railways, contributing directly to the war effort.

However, at the same time, sectors like retail, hospitality, and services—where women make up a significant portion of the workforce—have been devastated by the war's economic impacts. Business closures and downturns have led to widespread job losses, forcing many women to navigate an uncertain job market. With formal employment opportunities scarce, many have turned to informal work, which often lacks security, benefits, and fair wages, leaving them more vulnerable than ever. Displacement has further compounded these challenges. Over 7.1 million Ukrainians have been internally displaced due to the conflict, with women making up the majority of this group. Of these, only 43% of internally displaced women have found employment, compared to 58% of men, highlighting significant gender disparities in the job market. Additionally, unemployment among recently displaced individuals has reached 24%. Many women are now forced to navigate unfamiliar and strained economies. This struggle underscores and exacerbates existing labour market inequalities, as women frequently remain concentrated in lower-paying, less secure jobs despite holding educational qualifications.​ While this shift highlights the resilience and adaptability of women, it's essential to recognise that women's experiences can vary significantly based on their identity and background. For instance, women from ethnic or religious minorities face unique challenges that can hinder their participation in the workforce. The war has exacerbated pre-existing inequalities, with vulnerable groups, including older women and single mothers, comprising a significant portion of those affected by poverty.

Moreover, the Rapid Gender Analysis (RGA) conducted by UN Women indicates that women and minorities are experiencing immense hardships regarding health, safety, and access to resources. For example, female-headed households are more food insecure than male-headed households, facing higher food scarcity risks. Additionally, women from marginalised communities, such as the Roma, LGBTQIA+ and disabled, encounter barriers to accessing education and humanitarian assistance due to a lack of civil status documentation.

The war has also heightened risks of gender-based violence (GBV) for women, particularly those from these minority backgrounds. Reports indicate that many women have experienced increased violence and exploitation, including risks of trafficking and transactional sex, as criminal gangs exploit the vulnerabilities created by the conflict . This context underscores the importance of addressing the specific needs of diverse groups of women to ensure that all can benefit from the evolving economic landscape in Ukraine.

The Burden of Displacement

The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has indeed led to significant displacement, with an estimated 14.6 million people projected to need humanitarian assistance in 2024, and 56% of this group comprising women and girls. These women have taken on the dual responsibility of being sole breadwinners while ensuring the safety and well-being of their families, which has placed immense pressure on them as they navigate new environments filled with barriers such as language and cultural differences. This situation often leads to feelings of isolation and vulnerability, making it difficult for them to access essential services.Many women have shared their experiences to illustrate the personal impact of these challenges. For instance, Olesia Bondar, the Director of the Ukrainian Women's Fund noted, "Every day is a struggle to find work and keep my children safe. I feel like I am fighting a battle on two fronts—one for my family's survival and another against the isolation of being in a new place." Such testimonies reflect the resilience and determination of women facing these overwhelming circumstances.

Displacement has drastically upended daily life for families, with school closures forcing children into online education or makeshift classrooms in metro stations. At the same time, mothers juggle the dual roles of educator and provider. One displaced mother, who had previously worked as a nanny, described her entry into an unfamiliar job market, saying, "I would never have taken the job if I could have afforded not to. But I also wanted to do something to help secure victory."

Overall, the displacement caused by the war in Ukraine has not only affected the physical safety of women and children but has also redefined their roles within their families and communities, often pushing them into positions of leadership and responsibility amidst crisis.

Mental Health and Psychological Impact

The psychological toll of war on women in Ukraine is profound, manifesting in heightened levels of anxiety, depression, and survivor's guilt. Studies indicate that the trauma associated with war and displacement can lead to significant mental health challenges, particularly during the perinatal period. For instance, a study found that 34.8% of internally displaced pregnant women experienced post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Additionally, women who are forced to relocate often face increased levels of anxiety, 3.3 times higher among displaced pregnant women compared to those who are not displaced.

The impact of war extends beyond immediate psychological effects; it also shapes the identities and mental health of children growing up in conflict. The trauma experienced by mothers can have long-term repercussions on their children, affecting their development and emotional well-being. One woman poignantly said, "Every day, I wake up wondering if my children will ever feel safe again. The fear and uncertainty weigh heavily on me, and I worry about the scars this will leave on them." This quote encapsulates the deep emotional struggles faced by mothers in wartime.

Shortcomings of the International Community’s Response and a Way Forward

Now that we have examined the issues facing women let’s explore potential solutions and actions to support them. Supporting women’s integration into the workforce during the conflict is essential for strengthening their economic resilience and ensuring family and community stability. Practical measures include offering skills training, creating job opportunities, and providing access to microfinancing. For displaced women who have taken on caregiving roles, ensuring flexible work arrangements and access to childcare facilities can empower them to balance their responsibilities more effectively. Tailored interventions are critical for vulnerable groups such as single mothers, women with disabilities, and survivors of gender-based violence. Programs that address their unique needs, including legal aid, accessible healthcare, and social services, must be prioritised. Additionally, efforts should focus on empowering these women through education and leadership training, enabling them to advocate for their rights and lead community-driven recovery efforts.

In terms of displacement, it is projected that over 8 million women and girls in Ukraine will require humanitarian assistance in 2024. These women face heightened risks, including gender-based violence, restricted access to resources, and limited coping mechanisms. Advocacy efforts by civil society organisations (CSOs) have been insufficient, often neglecting the unique challenges women encounter. Addressing these gaps requires implementing gender-sensitive humanitarian aid that ensures access to essential resources, safeguards against gender-based violence, and provides mental health support. It also necessitates amplifying women’s voices, focusing on elevating the narratives and needs of women in conflict zones while challenging patriarchal norms that marginalise their experiences. Furthermore, increasing collaboration with local organisations and grassroots networks can better address displaced women's cultural and logistical needs.

Displacement has thrust women into dual caregiving and breadwinning roles. Addressing their needs involves advocating for supportive policies and programs focusing on economic empowerment, family support services, and equitable access to education and healthcare. Organisations like UN Women emphasise the importance of including women in peacebuilding and security discussions, as their participation leads to more comprehensive and sustainable solutions. Additionally, programs that offer therapeutic and trauma-informed care are vital in addressing the psychological impacts of war. Culturally sensitive approaches that overcome barriers such as language and accessibility are essential. Community-based mental health initiatives that facilitate social adaptation and resilience-building among women and children can help them cope with trauma and rebuild their lives.

Ukrainian women have showcased remarkable resilience, initiating small businesses, engaging in essential training, and forming grassroots support networks. These efforts underscore their critical role as community unifiers and problem-solvers. Amplifying their contributions is vital to reshaping narratives about women’s roles in conflict and recovery. One woman noted, “In times of crisis, we must stand together. Our strength lies in our unity and the support we give each other.” This sentiment reflects the collective resilience characterising Ukrainian women’s response to adversity.

Looking Ahead

The ongoing war in Ukraine has significantly redefined gender roles, thrusting women into positions of leadership and responsibility. Challenges persist while progress has been made—such as dismantling Soviet-era employment restrictions and increasing women’s political representation. Addressing these barriers requires a comprehensive approach that combines advocacy for gender-sensitive aid with efforts to dismantle patriarchal norms and ensure equitable resource distribution. Amplifying women’s voices and fostering inclusion in recovery and peacebuilding processes will enable them to lead in post-conflict transformation. The international community can build a more inclusive and resilient society by recognising women as critical agents of change. This shift benefits not only the women themselves but also strengthens the broader recovery and stability of communities impacted by war.

By: Hannah Greenwood