Global Fund for Women Statement on Russian Attacks in Ukraine

Today and always, our feminism is against war, patriarchy, and imperialism. We join gender justice activists around the world, including our partners in Ukraine, as well as the UN Secretary-General, UN Women, and many members of the international community in calling to #StopTheWar and end the Russian invasion of Ukraine. We also acknowledge the existence of various militarized conflicts around the world where women, girls, and gender nonconforming people and marginalized communities continue to bear the brunt of armed conflict.   

Feminist funds and gender justice organizations have historically supported communities before, during, and long after war and humanitarian crises fall from the headlines. Now more than ever, we call for the urgent de-escalation, demilitarization, and disarmament in relation to Ukraine and beyond.  

We condemn reports of Black Ukrainians, members of the African Diaspora, and migrants of color being discriminated against when trying to leave the country. We further condemn reported instances of members of the transgender community being denied safe passage or forced into military service due to their gender identity.  

Women and marginalized peoples are not only victims but leaders in crisis response, acting as frontline healthcare workers, unpaid caregivers, and community mobilizers. Global Fund for Women has supported feminist work and organizing in Eastern Europe for over 20 years. We are committed to listening to the needs of local gender justice organizations and collectives in Ukraine and bordering countries that are responding to evacuations, relocation, and humanitarian needs centering women, girls, gender nonconforming people and all marginalized communities.  

They need resources now. You can support them by taking the following actions:    

• Support and share Urgent Action Fund’s emergency response appeal.  
• Amplify our thread on social media and join the collective call to #StopTheWar 
• Learn more about organizations supporting queer, disabled, youth, and Roma communities in Ukraine. List gathered by Nino Ugrekhelidze and used with great appreciation.