Women’s Rights in Ukraine: A History of Struggles and Achievements

As International Women’s Day approaches, it’s important to reflect on the history of women’s rights in Ukraine. Over the centuries, women in Ukraine have fought for their rights, and although significant progress has been made, there’s still much to be done.

Kievan Rus’ (9th-13th centuries)

In Kievan Rus’, women had certain privileges that were uncommon for that era. They were allowed to own property, inherit land, and in some cases, rule the state. For example, Princess Olga not only ruled after the death of her husband but also took part in diplomatic negotiations. However, marriage during this time was often more about political alliances than personal choice. Daughters were married off for strategic reasons, and in the event of a husband’s death, a widow could be pushed into a convent, stripping her of many freedoms.

Cossack Era (16th-18th centuries)

The Cossack era saw women playing crucial roles in the domestic sphere and economic life. Many women, like the notable Maryna Mniszech, who was involved in the Cossack leadership during times of unrest, took charge of estates and businesses. However, despite their active roles in society, political power remained almost entirely in male hands. Women were excluded from military leadership, which was central to the Cossack identity.

19th Century – The Rise of Feminism

The 19th century marked a significant shift as Ukrainian women began to organize and demand their rights. Writers and activists like Olha Kobylianska and Larysa Rudenko advocated for women’s education and social equality. The first feminist organizations were created, and women started to push for access to universities and more professional opportunities. However, women still faced immense resistance, and societal norms often silenced those who dared to question their traditional roles.

Soviet Era (20th Century)

The Soviet period brought certain legal rights for women. They gained the right to vote, work in male-dominated professions, and participate in political life. Women were encouraged to join the workforce and contribute to the economy. But despite these advancements, the burden of managing the household and raising children was still largely placed on women. The expectation was that they would work full-time while still being responsible for domestic chores and caregiving, creating a “double shift” that hindered true equality.

Modern Ukraine

Today, Ukrainian women have equal legal rights, and we are seeing more women in politics, business, and even the military. Figures like Iryna Herashchenko and Yulia Tymoshenko have broken significant barriers in political leadership, and women serve on the front lines of the ongoing war as soldiers and medics. However, challenges remain—gender pay gaps persist, domestic violence remains a significant issue, and women continue to face barriers to leadership positions in both the public and private sectors.

As we celebrate International Women’s Day, it’s important to acknowledge the progress made but also recognize that the fight for full equality continues. The road to gender equality is far from over, and there’s still much work to be done.