A Ukrainian NGO, “Arm Women Now,” which focuses on manufacturing female-specific uniforms, body armour, and other non-lethal equipment, is showcasing its work at NATO Headquarters, according to a press release from NATO.
This exhibit highlights the importance of military adaptation to gender-specific needs, ensuring servicewomen can operate under the safest possible conditions.
The increased attention to this issue has been spurred by Russia’s war against Ukraine, which has underscored the risks posed by inadequate military equipment for women. The initiative has been supported by NATO Secretary General’s Special Representative for Women, Peace, and Security, Irene Fellin.
The exhibition was opened during the Defence Ministerial meeting on Thursday, 13 June, by Ms Fellin, alongside U.S. Permanent Representative to NATO Ambassador Julianne Smith, Deputy Chair of NATO Military Committee Lieutenant General Andrew Rohling, and Founder of “Arm Women Now” and Member of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine, Iryna Nykorak.
“After decades of efforts to integrate gender perspectives into the armed forces, the lack of uniforms and military equipment specifically designed to meet women’s needs remains a significant issue in many countries,” said Irene Fellin in her opening address.
“This exhibition underscores our dedication to translating the principles of the women, peace, and security agenda into concrete actions, lifting barriers to women’s full, equal, safe, and meaningful participation in peace and security, as stated in our new WPS policy, to be endorsed at the upcoming NATO Summit in Washington.”
The project aims to promote equality, dignity, and respect for women in the security and defence sector. “Arm Women Now” is a leader in designing and producing uniforms, body armour, and other non-lethal military equipment specifically based on women’s anthropometric data.
These items are delivered free of charge to thousands of Ukrainian servicewomen. Integrating the gender perspective across all NATO’s policies, operations, missions, and activities is a guiding principle of the Alliance’s work under the women, peace, and security policy and action plan.
