Professional Development Course at the Diplomatic Academy
On July 16-17, 2026, the Hennadii Udovenko Diplomatic Academy of Ukraine will host a professional development program titled 'Tools for Integrating a Gender Approach into the Work of Diplomatic Service Bodies.' This initiative is organized by Ukraine’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Diplomatic Academy, the Association of Spouses of Ukrainian Diplomats, and UN Women in Ukraine. Financial backing comes from the governments of Denmark, Norway, Poland, Finland, and Sweden.
Notably, from July 20-22, 2026, the program will be delivered online for staff of Ukraine’s foreign diplomatic missions and their spouses. Speaking on behalf of Minister Andrii Sybiha, Deputy Minister Mariana Betsa emphasized that equality is a principle shaping the evolution of modern diplomatic service.
“For the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, equality has long ceased to be a mere formal requirement. It is a principle that defines the development of a modern diplomatic service, strengthens the Ministry’s institutional capacity, and helps build a diplomacy grounded in professionalism, equal opportunities, and leadership.” — Mariana Betsa
The Diplomatic Academy of Ukraine views this program as a key step toward fostering a new professional culture within Ukrainian diplomacy. Academy Director Ihor Ostash highlighted the importance of gender competence as an essential component of a diplomat’s professionalism. He also noted that gender equality is a cross-cutting principle of European Union law and policy, enshrined in the EU’s Gender Equality Strategy.
“We aim for every participant to gain not only new knowledge but also practical tools to integrate gender equality principles into the daily work of the diplomatic service and to implement European standards in the activities of state institutions.” — Ihor Ostash
In 2019, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine conducted a gender audit with support from UN Women, and a follow-up audit in 2024 confirmed positive progress. Currently, women hold over 50% of director and head-of-department positions within the Ministry, and more than 55% of new hires in 2026 are women. The Ministry is actively involved in drafting the National Action Plan for implementing UN Security Council Resolution 1325 on 'Women, Peace, and Security' through 2030, underscoring its focus on advancing gender equality in Ukraine.
Ukraine’s Gender Equality Efforts
This professional development program is part of broader Ukrainian efforts to integrate a gender perspective across all areas of public life, including the diplomatic service. The involvement of international partners highlights global support for this initiative, which could positively shape Ukraine’s image on the world stage.
Promoting gender equality within state institutions is a crucial step toward sustainable development and the country’s democratization.
As Ukraine's Foreign Ministry continues to prioritize gender equality, the recent announcement of a professional development program underscores the ongoing transformation within the diplomatic service. This initiative aligns with the growing trend of women assuming significant leadership positions within the Ministry, reflecting a broader commitment to inclusivity. For more insights on this pivotal shift, read about how women are increasingly taking on leadership roles in Ukraine's Foreign Ministry.