Outcome UKR_O_3

Advancing business transformation

The UN Women Country Office (CO) in Ukraine has made remarkable progress in advancing business transformation in 2024, building on its commitment to deliver impact at scale through strategic planning and adaptive leadership. Amidst the complexities of operating in a conflict-affected region, the CO demonstrated resilience and foresight in transforming its operations to meet the growing needs of its workforce, partners, and beneficiaries. A significant element of this transformation was the enhancement of human resource capacity. The CO increased its staffing levels from 45 to 68 plus 25 consultants arriving around 100 personnel in total which is a critical expansion to support its growing portfolio and operational demands. This growth was coupled with a shift from Service Contracts completed phased out to more stable Temporary and Fixed-Term Appointments, providing staff with improved coverage, security provisions, and stability. The expansion of the CO’s geographic footprint in eastern Ukraine, specifically in the city of Dnipro, further underscored its ability to adapt to evolving needs. The Dnipro sub-office became a critical hub for addressing the pressing humanitarian and early recovery challenges faced by the region. By working closely with other UN agencies and local partners, the CO ensured a coordinated response to the crisis, demonstrating its capacity to bridge immediate relief efforts with sustainable recovery programs. The sub-office in Dnipro stands as a testament to the CO’s ability to operate effectively in high-pressure environments while maintaining its focus on advancing gender equality and women’s empowerment. In a region marked by uncertainty, the CO also prioritized the safety and security of its staff. Comprehensive security risk management measures were developed, tailored to address the specific challenges of both Eastern and Western/Central Ukraine. These measures, implemented in collaboration with the Security Cell and Security Management Team, ensured that staff were informed and equipped to manage risks effectively. This proactive approach extended to contingency planning, with emergency protocols and resources in place to address unforeseen scenarios, reinforcing the CO’s commitment to the well-being of its personnel. The business transformation achieved in 2024 was not simply a matter of operational adjustments but a reflection of the CO’s agility, ethical leadership, and culture of continuous improvement. By strategically aligning resources, strengthening its workforce, and expanding its presence at the regional level, the CO positioned itself to respond effectively to the complex challenges posed by the war. Looking ahead, the CO is well-prepared to continue its trajectory of impact in 2025 and beyond, building on the foundations established through its transformational efforts in 2024. The progress made highlights the organization’s capacity to lead in challenging contexts, delivering results that embody its mission to promote gender equality and empower women, even in the most testing circumstances.