My initial mission as European Commissioner for Equality, Preparedness, and Crisis Management was to Ukraine, underscoring my commitment to support the Ukrainian people during their time of need. On the ground, I witnessed the harsh realities faced by Ukrainians, especially the women who stand resilient as key pillars of their communities.

Despite their essential roles, Ukrainian women confront poverty, displacement, and threats of violence. It is imperative we support these women by dismantling barriers to aid and unlocking their potential to rebuild their nation.

The EU is dedicated to putting women at the heart of Ukraines recovery, providing humanitarian aid through various organizations. We aim to ensure access to critical services for health and gender-based violence, and to empower local civil society, particularly women-led groups.

Through the EU-funded Ukraine Facility, we are creating jobs focused on women-led businesses and supporting economic empowerment initiatives, such as reskilling displaced women in the IT sector. Our efforts aim to foster a fair and inclusive labor market aligned with EU standards.

The EU remains a leader in advocating for womens rights globally, having implemented key legislation and strategies, including our comprehensive Roadmap for Womens Rights. My visit to Ukraine inspired me to further our commitments, driven by the hope and dreams shared by individuals like 12-year-old Sofia, who aspires to a career in cosmetic medicine. We must not let her down. Together, lets rebuild a just and thriving Ukraine.