Women in Peacekeeping: Major Stela Alexandrov on challenging stereotypes and the role of women in peace operations

An increasing number of women are choosing careers in the defense sector, including Major of Justice Stela Alexandrov, a legal officer within the Ministry of Defense. For her, pursuing a military career was a natural step, inspired by her older brother, who serves as a police officer. “I wanted to prove that professionalism, discipline, and integrity are not determined by gender”, says Stela Alexandrov.

She recalls her early years in the military as both challenging and formative, experiences that paved the way for the career she has today. She joined the National Army in 2009 as a legal officer in a military unit in Ungheni. “At the beginning, I felt the need to put in additional effort and constantly prove my competence in the military environment, to a greater extent than my male colleagues. Nevertheless, I learned how to cope with pressure, communicate clearly, and make balanced decisions, even in difficult circumstances. The experience I gained helped me quickly understand not only the legal aspects related to my professional duties, but also the importance of collaboration and mutual respect within a team”, she shares.

Over the years, she was promoted to the position of Head of the Housing Stock Management Service within an institution subordinated to the Ministry of Defense, and in 2023, she was deployed to a UN peacekeeping mission in South Sudan, an experience she describes as a defining moment in both her professional and personal development. “I realized that my role was not only technical or administrative, but also deeply human and diplomatic, especially in interactions with civilians affected by conflict. This experience reaffirmed my belief that women in the military play an essential role in promoting peace, as they are often able to communicate effectively and empathetically with women and children in crisis-affected areas”, says Stela Alexandrov.

According to her, the role of women in the military has continued to grow, with women now serving in leadership and command positions as well. Available data show that in 2024, women represented 21 per cent of the National Army’s personnel, surpassing the average of 13 per cent recorded across Western armed forces. “The increasing participation of women across all areas of military service is a confirmation of the progress made in advancing gender equality, while also contributing to the development of a modern, effective, and inclusive defense institution”, she notes.

Stela Alexandrov also highlights the progress achieved since the Republic of Moldova adopted its first National Programme for the implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 1325 in 2018. Among the advances are the growing number of women serving in diverse military roles, improved access to specialized training, and greater openness towards women’s participation in international peacekeeping missions. At the same time, mechanisms to prevent and address sexual harassment and gender-based discrimination have been developed and implemented, contributing to a healthier and more equitable working environment. “Resolution 1325 is not just a document, it has become an integral part of how the Army builds its capabilities, grounded in inclusion, women’s rights, and a culture of respect and collaboration.”

Stela Alexandrov is also the mother of two children, who, she says, are very proud of her role in the National Army and are always curious and interested in her daily work. “During the most difficult moments, such as my 18-month deployment to the international peacekeeping mission, they were my greatest source of strength and motivation to return home safely, especially considering the risks associated with missions in conflict zones. At the same time, my husband and I share a common understanding of the demands of our profession, as he is also in the military, which allows us to support each other as partners.”

With more than 15 years of experience in military legal affairs, she remains committed to continuously strengthening her expertise through specialized training and professional development opportunities. “It is important for me to stay informed about legislative changes and international best practices, because I work in a dynamic field that requires constant learning and improvement”, emphasizes Stela Alexandrov.

As an active member of the Association of Women in the National Army (AFAN), she also plans to continue contributing to initiatives that promote gender equality and equal opportunities within the armed forces. “I want to help create a professional and inclusive environment where young women are given every opportunity to pursue their aspirations and fully realize their potential.”

To young women considering a military career, Stela Alexandrov encourages them to believe in themselves and not be discouraged by stereotypes. “With perseverance and determination, we can become respected leaders, and through our own example, we can open the way for other women to pursue military careers within a modern and inclusive army.”