INTERNATIONAL LEGAL EXPERIENCE IN THE PROTECTION OF WOMEN'S RIGHTS

This article examines the international legal framework for the protection of women's labor rights, a topic that remains highly relevant in the context of global social and political challenges, particularly for Ukraine amid ongoing armed conflict. The author provides a comprehensive analysis of key international instruments aimed at ensuring gender equality in the workplace, including the United Nations Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW), the Beijing Platform for Action, UN Security Council Resolution 1325 "Women, Peace, and Security", and several conventions adopted by the International Labour Organization (ILO). The study emphasizes legal obligations of states to guarantee equal pay for equal work, protection against discrimination and harassment in employment, and the right to balance work and family responsibilities. Particular attention is given to the role of international institutions such as the CEDAW Committee, the ILO, and the European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR) in developing and enforcing these standards. A case study of Jurčić v. Croatia (2021) is presented, highlighting ECtHR’s recognition of discrimination based on pregnancy, marking a significant development in European human rights jurisprudence. The article also outlines current challenges faced by women in Ukraine, including “invisible discrimination”, the glass ceiling phenomenon, and increased vulnerabilities caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and full-scale war. The aim of the study is to identify effective legal models for the protection of women’s labor rights through the prism of international experience. The conclusion underscores the importance of not only incorporating international norms into national legislation but also strengthening the practical mechanisms for their implementation. The article calls for a comprehensive and gender-sensitive approach to building a fair and inclusive labor market in Ukraine. The conclusion notes that there is a significant gap between the declared norms and the real state of affairs. Ukraine, as a country that is simultaneously overcoming the challenges of a full-scale war and trying to implement European legal standards, faces a number of challenges. It is therefore important not only to implement international legal provisions into national legislation, but also to ensure effective mechanisms for their practical application. Studying and adapting international best practices can play a key role in building a truly equal and inclusive labour market in Ukraine.