On June 14, the traditional Women’s Strike — FEM STREIK 2026 — took place in Switzerland, annually uniting thousands of women around issues of equality, human rights, social justice, and democratic values.
For me, as the Director of the Business Woman magazine representative office in Switzerland, it is especially important to support initiatives that strengthen the role of women in society, promote the development of civic activism, and draw attention to important contemporary social challenges.
Together with like-minded girls, we joined the strike as members of SP Zürich and SP Frauen Zürich. This event became not only a manifestation of women’s solidarity but also an opportunity to remind that freedom, democracy, and human rights require constant protection and support.
The topic of Ukraine occupied a special place during this year’s strike. Among hundreds of participants and posters, the Ukrainian voice was heard — the voice of women who have been living in the conditions of a full-scale war for over four years and demonstrate an example of resilience to the world every day.
Our posters read:
“Ukrainerinnen für Freiheit gegen Faschismus”
(“Ukrainian women for freedom against fascism”).
Today, Ukrainian women have become a symbol of strength and responsibility. They protect the country in the ranks of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, run businesses, implement humanitarian and social projects, engage in volunteering, raise children, and support the state’s economy even in the most difficult times.
At the same time, Ukrainian women are increasingly actively asserting themselves on the international stage. They participate in political, public, educational, and cultural processes in the countries of their temporary residence, shaping a new image of the modern Ukrainian woman — professional, responsible, strong, and open to cooperation.
Events like FEM STREIK demonstrate that women’s leadership today goes far beyond traditional roles. Women are becoming the driving force behind social changes, uniting people around the values of freedom, equality, democracy, and mutual support.
For the Ukrainian community in Switzerland, participating in such events is of particular importance. It is an opportunity not only to integrate into the public life of the country but also to speak about the events in Ukraine, draw attention to the struggle of the Ukrainian people, and strengthen international solidarity.
The Women’s Strike in Switzerland once again confirmed: human rights, equality of opportunities, and human dignity remain the foundation of modern Europe. And the Ukrainian experience of fighting for freedom today is an important reminder that democracy requires not only protection but also the active participation of each of us.
Sincerely grateful to all women who continue to be the voice of change, support Ukraine, and prove by their own example that true leadership begins with responsibility for the future.
Weil die Probleme bleiben!
Because the problems remain. And therefore — we continue to act, support each other, and change the world for the better.
Author: Olesia Tarasenko, Director of the Business Woman magazine representative office in Switzerland, President of the Swiss-Ukrainian Association VIDNOVA
Photo: from the author’s archive