PORTRAIT OF OKSANA GRYGORIEVA
Oksana Grygorieva is a gender advisor at the General Staff of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, having been at the forefront of integrating gender perspectives within Ukraine’s military. She is new to this role, as for more than three years, she served as the Gender Advisor to the Commander of the Ground Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. She stepped into that position in February 2022, at a critical moment, just before the full-scale invasion.
Servicewomen were faced with a challenge; a long-standing rule restricting officer training to those under 45. This rule, which barred even skilled, experienced individuals over this age from qualifying for officer training, was a source of deep frustration. Despite their active service in the Armed Forces during war and eagerness to take on greater responsibilities, many of these women could not formally train as officers. Oksana made a compelling case: “If we trust these individuals to protect their country and risk their lives up to the age of 60, then we should also trust them to train as officers and lead,” she argued. She saw this limitation not just as a barrier to advancement but as a significant missed opportunity to harness the full potential of skilled, committed individuals ready to lead.
And it wasn’t only women who were affected. Men who joined the military later in life and brought valuable management and leadership experience with them could also not join officer training.
Her advocacy led to a policy shift within the Ground Forces of Ukraine, allowing those over 45 to access officer training. This transformative step taps into the full potential of every dedicated soldier, regardless of age. Oksana considers this achievement one of the most significant milestones in her role, advancing both equality and effectiveness within the military.
Oksana’s vision extends beyond wartime. She dreams of a future where women who led during the war retain their positions if they choose, ensuring they continue to lead processes once dominated by men. This vision aligns with the broader gender equality goals in the military, helping to build a more inclusive, resilient Armed Forces in Ukraine.