Representatives of the Chernihiv Polytechnic National University Melnyk Olha, Vice-Rector for Scientific-Pedagogical Work and Social Development, and Zakharyna Maryna, Associate Professor of the Department of Social Work, took part in the event designed to promote the exchange of views and cooperation between leaders of Ukrainian women’s and youth civil society on promoting sustainable peace in Ukraine. The event discussed contemporary challenges facing society, promoting the implementation of the UN Security Council Resolution ‘Women, Peace, Security’ and the ‘Pact for the Future’ in the context of Ukraine.

Key topics discussed included: strengthening women’s participation in decision-making processes, the role of youth in building social cohesion, and the prospects for involving the academic community in forming a culture of peace, supporting affected communities, and promoting sustainable development of regions. Participants emphasized the importance of intersectoral cooperation to achieve sustainable peace in Ukraine and shape a future without violence.

The event brought together a diverse group of participants, including:

• Government officials, line ministries and politicians.
• Representatives of international and local civil society organizations working in the areas of human rights, women’s rights, youth empowerment and humanitarian assistance to vulnerable groups
• Ukrainian leaders among women and youth from civil society and grassroots initiatives.
• Ukrainian academic/scientific community working on this topic.
• Representatives of international/regional organizations.

The university’s participation in such initiatives is part of a broader strategy to integrate the principles of sustainable development, gender equality and engage youth in addressing socially important issues.

The event was initiated by the Department of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs with the support of UN Women, UNDP, UNICEF and the UN Peace and Development Adviser.