Women from vulnerable groups, including Roma women, must be included in negotiation processes regarding Ukraine’s future. This was emphasized by Anzhelika Bielova, President of Voice of Romni, during the Summit of the Coalition of Women Leaders for the Future of Ukraine, held in Warsaw. She highlighted the importance of embracing diversity and unity within the women’s movement.

The Summit in Poland, held on February 20-21, was organized by the Georgetown Institute for Women, Peace and Security (GIWPS) and the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO). The event brought together representatives of Ukrainian women’s organizations, international experts, and diplomats to discuss the role of women in recovery processes, peacebuilding, and decision-making.

Anzhelika Bielova shared her perspective at the summit:

“Today, my goal is to provide the same platform that many of you here have given me and other Roma women—to amplify their voices, initiatives, and experiences. I want them not only to be included in the broader feminist movement but to become active participants and experts within it. From my own experience, I know how crucial the support of other women is and what powerful results our unity can achieve. Standing shoulder to shoulder with one another. We must not allow our immense experience on the ground to go unheard. We need to bring the voices of Roma women to different levels, including international platforms, to ensure their needs are reflected in humanitarian response plans and Ukraine’s recovery efforts. The Roma community must be actively involved in decision-making processes. And we can make a significant contribution to the global women’s movement.”

During the panel discussions, participants explored mechanisms for enhancing women’s participation in decision-making processes, the importance of international support, and the need to create safe environments for women activists. They also emphasized the necessity of funding initiatives aimed at protecting women’s rights and strengthening their economic empowerment. For Voice of Romni, supporting grassroots women leaders in decision-making, as well as coordinating and uniting various stakeholders in the implementation of the Roma Strategy in Ukraine, remains a key priority.

At the Summit, participants explored the experience of Northern Ireland, which had been in armed conflict for nearly 20 years. Special attention was given to the crucial role of women in peacebuilding processes. Speakers on this topic included former Member of the Legislative Assembly of Northern Ireland Monica McWilliams and civil activist and peacebuilder Avila Kilmurray, who were among the signatories of the Belfast Agreement that established peace in Northern Ireland. They shared how, despite resistance and numerous challenges, they managed to build a resilient women’s movement that became an integral part of the peaceful resolution of the long-standing conflict.

We remember that women can not only actively defend the state but also play a key role in shaping its future when making critical decisions. Our voices and leadership must become the cornerstone of an inclusive and sustainable peace that includes the needs of all communities.