The Role of Women in Ukraine’s Energy Sector During War Time
Keywords: Energy transition, women, Ukraine, gender equality, Europe, energy access, employment, energy sector, capacitiy building | Study published: January 2024
The study examines the existing issue of gender imbalance in the Ukrainian energy sector, with a special focus on segregation, access to professional education, employment trends, and fair remuneration for women. Since February 24, 2022, the labour market in Ukraine has undergone significant changes. By the end of 2022, unemployment reached 30%, representing approximately 5 million people. Among them, special attention should be given to internally displaced women (IDPs), who were forced to relocate in search of safe conditions for themselves and their families. These women often face barriers in employment due to their gender, age, and status. As the war unfolded, the employment opportunities in the energy sector for IDP women also changed.
By working together, it is possible to create a more inclusive and diverse workforce in the energy sector, leading to improved performance, innovation, and sustainability in the industry.
- To promote opportunities for women in the energy sector, it is essential to enhance awareness about energy-related careers through educational events, mentorship programs, and information campaigns targeting both girls and employers. Due to the war, raising awareness about the rights and opportunities available to women, particularly internally displaced persons (IDPs) in the labour market is essential.
- Establishing diverse and inclusive work environments requires enforcing quotas for women in management and adapting recruitment processes to ensure equal opportunities for all genders.
- Successful implementation of these recommendations requires collaboration among government entities, businesses, non-governmental organisations, and European partners.