Abstract
The purpose of this article is to conduct a comparative analysis of gender policies regarding the recruitment of women into military service during World War II and the Russo - Ukrainian War. The research methodology is based on the principles of historicism and objectivity, combining general scientific and specialized methods (problem - chronological, analysis, and synthesis) with comparative and systemic approaches. The scientific novelty of this study lies in conducting a comprehensive comparative analysis of gender policies regarding the recruitment of women into military service during two distinct historical periods — World War II and the contemporary Russo - Ukrainian War — through the lens of the transformation of women’s roles in wartime. This allows for a fresh assessment of women’s role in the military as a strategic resource and an agent of social transformation. Conclusions. This article analyzes the transformation of state gender policy in the context of two large - scale military conflicts: World War II and the contemporary Russo - Ukrainian War. The recruitment of women into military service during World War II and the Russo - Ukrainian War reflects a combination of objective state needs and deep societal changes. Wars act as a catalyst for both temporary and long - term changes in gender policy. In the mid - 20th century, these changes were limited in scope and temporary, whereas in contemporary Ukraine they have become systemic and entail long - term consequences, particularly in terms of women’s professional advancement and social status. The presence of women in the Armed Forces of Ukraine transforms not only the military but also society as a whole. At the same time, despite significant progress, certain instances of gender imbalance persist within the Armed Forces of Ukraine, particularly regarding career advancement and access to leadership positions. This highlights the necessity of further refining state gender policy and the mechanisms for its practical implementation.