In the words of Major Ludmila Saulova “When they see a woman in uniform, they see someone they can talk to”

Major Ludmila Saulova, a Moldovan peacekeeper, served with the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA). She recently spoke to UN Women about her experiences from the field, and the importance of women peacekeepers.

^{Photo credit: UN Women Moldova/Stela Dontu}

"During my 18-month deployment, it became clear just how vital it is to have women in peacekeeping teams. In my unit, there were only two women among many men. We made sure that at least one of us was present on every patrol. That wasn’t just for the sake of balance - it was because local women often didn’t feel comfortable speaking to my male colleagues, no matter how kind or professional they were. But they would speak to us. 

In any armed conflict, women and children are among the most vulnerable — and the most in need of trust and protection. When they see a woman in uniform, they see someone they can talk to. That can make all the difference. 

One incident early in my mission left a lasting impression. During a routine patrol, I noticed a young boy who seemed withdrawn. When I tried to speak with his mother, she hesitated and didn’t want to share what had happened. I approached the boy and tried to connect with him. 

In that region, they spoke Sango and French, so I had to rely on the French I had learned in school. Bit by bit, explained what had happened to him. He told me he had been kidnapped by an armed group, and the details of what he shared were horrifying. 

We reported the case, and psychologists were brought in to support him. Later, when I was reassigned to the capital, I kept thinking about him. Then I received the good news that he had returned to school and was doing well. I was so revealed and proud that I had been there at the right moment to help. 

To any young woman thinking about becoming a peacekeeper, I say this: you need to have courage. You need to stand your ground and believe in the value of what you’re doing. And you must trust your instincts - because sometimes, noticing something small can make a great difference."

The increasingly active involvement of women in peacekeeping missions aligns with the collective efforts to advance the Women, Peace, and Security Agenda, including contributions from UN Women and financial support from Sweden and Denmark.