Time to address the absence of ‘gender’ in the temporary protection directive and its recent implementation

Abstract

The Temporary Protection Directive was activated in response to the Russian attack on Ukraine that has caused a mass influx of people fleeing the war to the EU. It was not only a part of the “Union’s response to the migratory pressure resulting from the Russian military invasion of Ukraine” but also became an act of solidarity towards Ukraine and its people, and between the EU Member States. Such a fast response was followed by the simplification of border control and increased flexibility with regards to entry conditions, which made it possible for millions of people, mostly women, to flee the war without obstacles (at least legally) to reach the EU and more easily settle into a new place. Obtaining security by crossing the border between Ukraine and the EU, however, does not insure these women and girls against the risks and dangers that they may face while traveling or in their new destination.