The 52nd St. Gallen Symposium brought together three remarkable women from Ukraine, each with unique insights into the impact of war, the evolving role of women in society, and the power of collaboration in shaping a better future. Oleksandra Matviichuk, Lisa Yasko, and
Tanja Rak shared their experiences and opinions on a range of pressing topics, shedding light on the challenges faced by Ukraine and the opportunities for growth and progress.

Oleksandra Matviichuk, a human rights activist and founder of the Center for Civil Liberties, spoke about the consequences of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. She emphasized the urgent need to address impunity, pointing out that many countries and entities condemn Russia’s actions but fail to take decisive steps. Matviichuk used a powerful metaphor to illustrate the dangers of inaction, comparing the war to a malignant disease that requires immediate attention. She stressed that this conflict extends beyond Ukraine and involves the quest for a new international order that respects human rights and sovereignty.

In the face of manipulative propaganda glorifying figures like President Putin and PMC Wagner, Oleksandra Matviichuk expressed concern about young generations being influenced negatively. She acknowledged the complexity of tackling fake news and misinformation on social media, emphasizing the importance of fostering critical thinking and independent judgment among young people. She called for the responsible use of social media platforms and urged individuals to be vigilant in seeking reliable information.

Lisa Yasko, a journalist and active participant in Ukrainian politics, shared her unique perspective on the impact of war on Ukrainian citizens. Having experienced the war’s onset first-hand, she spoke about the fear and uncertainty faced by families in Eastern Ukraine. Despite false narratives propagated by some media, Yasko asserted that the region remained safe, and life continued as normally as possible. She underscored the resilience and adaptability of Ukrainian women in these difficult times.

Tanja Rak, a student from Ukraine who now resides in Warsaw, highlighted the challenges faced by Ukrainian women as heads of households. The statistic showing the majority of Ukrainian families being led by women was a reflection of historical trauma, including loss of male lives in the Second World War. Romanchuk stressed that Ukrainian women have become independent at an early age due to these circumstances, taking on multiple roles and responsibilities.

The three women also discussed the role of women in politics and society. Lisa Yasko, as a member of the Ukrainian Parliament, pointed out that the perception of young politicians has evolved over time, with their lack of experience initially met with skepticism. However, their dedication and accomplishments have since dispelled doubts. She urged for more balanced representations of women in various roles, including those in the military.

When asked what Ukrainian women can learn from their European counterparts, Tanja Rak emphasized the importance of fighting for rights, knowing and valuing one’s worth, and understanding individual rights from both moral and higher authority perspectives. She also stressed the need for global dialogue and mutual learning, breaking down barriers between countries.

The interviews provided a glimpse into the resilience and determination of Ukrainian women amid challenging circumstances. Their experiences demonstrated the power of collaboration, critical thinking, and the pursuit of justice in shaping a more inclusive and equitable future. As these women continue to make their mark in various spheres, their stories serve as an inspiration for others seeking positive change. The 52nd St. Gallen Symposium served as a platform for their voices to be heard, amplifying the importance of unity and shared responsibility in a rapidly changing world.