The current chapter of the Police Stabilization Project (PSP) is coming to a close—but its impact will live on.

Launched in the second year of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, PSP was born out of urgency, partnership, and purpose. As violence escalated and the safety of Ukrainian civilians and institutions came under threat, the need to support local law enforcement grew clearer than ever. Canada responded by building on its long-standing partnership with Ukrainian police forces and civil society, laying the groundwork for a program rooted in solidarity, trust, and a shared commitment to lasting change.

From the outset, the PSP was designed not just as a crisis response, but as a strategic investment in people, institutions, and public safety. In collaboration with the National Police of Ukraine (NPU), the Patrol Police, and the Ministry of Internal Affairs (MOIA), the PSP focused on equipping Ukrainian police officers with the tools, training, and systems needed to respond to emerging and evolving challenges brought on by the war. These efforts went beyond technical skills—they prioritized resilience, compassion, and connection with the communities the police serve.

Together with our Ukrainian partners, we strengthened police responses to gender-based violence, a growing concern in conflict-affected areas. We introduced training and resources to ensure survivors have access to timely, respectful, and trauma-informed support. We also worked to rebuild and reinforce trust between law enforcement and local communities, with a strong focus on transparency, communication, and community engagement.

Equally important was our work to support the mental health and wellbeing of Ukrainian police officers. As the war placed immense psychological strain on those working on the front lines of public safety, the PSP introduced new supports, tools, and resources to help officers process trauma and stay healthy in their roles. This investment in officer wellbeing not only helped improve morale and job performance—it also ensured a more responsive and empathetic police force for Ukrainian citizens.

 

What makes the PSP stand out, however, is not just the number of trainings held or strategies implemented. At its core, this has always been a project about people. About the trust we built with officers who put their lives on the line every day. About the survivors who felt seen and heard. About the communities that found stability in times of chaos. And about the partnerships—between countries, agencies, and individuals—that allowed all of this to happen.

 

As we near the formal end of the project, we are proud to reflect on what we’ve achieved together. Over the next few weeks, we’ll be sharing stories, results, and reflections from our time working on the PSP. We hope they not only honour the work that’s been done, but inspire continued collaboration and commitment to the safety, dignity, and resilience of Ukraine’s people.

💙 PSP was more than just a project. And while this chapter may be ending, the relationships and lessons we’ve built will continue to shape our shared future.