Following the successful inaugural edition earlier this year in Kyiv, the second Women’s Leadership during Times of War forum took place in Copenhagen, Denmark, at a particularly important time
Last week, the second edition of the Women’s Leadership in Times of War Forum demonstrated how liberal women are leading on the front lines of the war in Ukraine.
The two-day event, co-organised by ALDE Party Vice-Presidents Yevheniia Kravchuk and Eva Kjer Hansen in partnership with ALDE member parties Venstre, Moderaterne, Radikale Venstre, Ze!Zinky, the Friedrich Naumann Foundation and held at the Ukraine house in Denmark, brought together womenwith a focus on female leadership in times of war.
Liberal women and allies reiterated that leadership during times of war is driven by women who understand the stakes. European security depends on Ukrainian victory and international solidarity. Liberal values are directly connected to Ukraine’s success as a democratic nation.
The international forum was opened by Marie Bjerre, Minister for Europe, and Lars Lokke Rasmussen, party leader of Moderaterne and Minister of Foreign Affairs, and featured voices of parliamentarians and experts from across Europe. Discussions kicked off with Ukraine's path to EU membership and why integration is crucial for long-term stability.
Marie-Agnes Strack-Zimmermann MEP, chair of the European Parliament Defence Committee, outlined the need for clear support of Ukraine and vision of the common security architecture of Europe.
Speakers highlighted the realities on the frontlines and the urgency of continued support; Ukrainian representatives reminded participants that their soldiers are defending the entire continent’s freedom as well, and the importance of digital defence and radar technologies for national resilience, with technology playing a key role in Ukraine’s resistance.
Participants also recognised an exchange between education and culture as vital for recovery. Social resilience is supported by exchange between Ukraine and Europe, with shared knowledge helping societies endure hardship and rebuild effectively.
At the Ukrainian House, the message was clear: Europe must commit to Ukraine with consistency. Women are already leading that effort, and it is pivotal that Europe follows with action.