Gendered Impact of the Energy Crisis in Ukraine Assessment

Against the backdrop of intensified attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, the country is preparing for its fifth winter since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. UN Women Ukraine has released the Gendered Impact of the Energy Crisis in Ukraine Assessment, describing how energy disruptions during the winter of 2025–2026 affected women and men and setting out recommendations to ensure their needs are taken into account in preparations for the coming winter.

The assessment also highlights the specific challenges faced by households with children, older people and persons with disabilities, as well as those who care for them. It underscores the need to pay greater attention to the specific needs and challenges faced by women, particularly their increased responsibilities for caring for family members.

This publication draws on a nationally representative survey of 1,200 adults across Ukraine, a dedicated survey of 800 adults in Kyiv, 10 key informant interviews and eight focus group discussions with women and men in Kyiv, Ivano-Frankivsk, Odesa and Kharkiv. It also sets out recommendations for gender-responsive preparations for the 2026–2027 winter, addressed to the Government of Ukraine at all levels, the United Nations Humanitarian Team,funding and humanitarian partners.

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This assessment was commissioned by UN Women as part of its TransformCare Global Initiative and conducted by Voluntas, with funding from UK International Development from the UK government.  

The views expressed in this publication are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the views of UN Women, the United Nations or any of its affiliated organizations.   

This publication was funded by UK International Development from the UK Government; however, the views expressed do not necessarily reflect the UK Government's official policies.