Ukrainian organisation challenges sexism with innovative methods

The “Sexism Patrol” project is based on a methodology designed to quickly identify and analyse sexism in various contexts. Gender in Detail publishes expert articles and widely shared social media posts, aiming to equip affected women with strong arguments to defend themselves. The project also raises public awareness and holds perpetrators accountable.

The initiative focuses on four key areas: politics, business, local authorities, and the military. The goal is not just to call out sexist behaviour, but to explain why it is harmful to society as a whole.

“The fight against sexism is a fight for a European Ukraine with democratic values,” says Olga Nemanezhyna, project manager at SILC who cooperates with Gender in Detail on the “Sexism Patrol” project.

Using Humour as a Weapon

Gender in Detail actively uses humour to highlight sexism. In 2023, they launched the “Sexist of the Year” award, attracting attention by involving Ukrainian celebrities and stand-up comedians at the event.

“They are experts at using humour to reach a wider audience and convey their powerful message,” says Olga Nemanezhyna,

Exposing Sexism in the Military

In the midst of war, the organisation dared to challenge sexist behaviour within the military. One case involved three male soldiers who launched a YouTube show where they answered questions and made jokes.

“A female paramedic asked a question, to which they responded that women in the army are like “children and dogs.” The woman, who had dedicated months of her life to military service, began to cry while the men laughed”, says Olga Nemanezhyna.

Gender in Detail published an article about the incident, sparking a public debate and prompting the Ukrainian female veterans’ movement to take action. The discussion brought to light issues ranging from harassment to sexual violence within the army. In response, the organisation launched a petition, gathering the 25,000 signatures required to force an official response from the Ukrainian president.

“The public reaction was strong, despite the risks of criticising the military. The hosts of the show have never joked about female soldiers again,” says Nemanezhyna.

Legal Progress

The project also shed light on sexism in the business sector. One case involved a female publishing employee whose boss told her that “women can only write a certain type of literature because they are not intelligent enough.”

The case was taken to court, resulting in the man’s dismissal—a landmark decision that encouraged other companies to review their policies.

What’s Next?

Olga Nemanezhyna confirms that the cooperation with Gender in Detail is ongoing, with continuous publication of case studies and testimonies. The next step is to expand to a new platform, likely a YouTube channel, to reach a wider audience.

Additionally, SILC and Gender in Detail have been awarded funding through the SI Ukraine Cooperation Programme for a training programme.

“We see an opportunity to use decades of Swedish experience in gender mainstreaming as a tool to empower Ukrainian women, drive sustainable reforms, and facilitate EU integration,” says Olga Nemanezhyna.