Denys Shmyhal: We are creating a new social policy system based on the "building capacity instead of dependence" principle

Ukraine sees an active transformation stage. A social transition is underway from post-Soviet fake paternalism to effective social policy. This was stated by Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal at the opening of the International Ministerial Social Policy Summit.

According to him, the new social policy begins first of all with social services. And if necessary, it is supplemented by targeted social payments. This is a modern European approach. 

"War always exacerbates social issues. The number of people in need of support has increased and, unfortunately, continues to grow. And the old post-Soviet model cannot respond adequately. That is why we are creating a fundamentally new system. It is based on the principle of building capacity instead of dependence," the Prime Minister said.

In particular, the Government creates incentives for people to return to economic activity and focuses on supporting those who really need it.

"Digitalisation, targeting, universality, fairness, and barrier-free access are the main elements of our social policy," said Denys Shmyhal.

The Government is also encouraging IDPs to integrate into new communities, find a job or start their own business. It establishes clear requirements for urban space planning, develops prosthetics, including those based on innovative technologies, and encourages businesses to create jobs.

"Part of our efforts is the reform of the Medical and Social Expert Commissions. First of all, the potential of a person to recover will be taken into account, the system will be focused on returning them to normal life," the Head of Government said.

According to Denys Shmyhal, the state exerts every effort to ensure that every child grows up in a family. Not only the Government, but also the Coordination Centre for the Development of Family Education and Childcare under the patronage of the First Lady of Ukraine Olena Zelenska are working on this issue.

Helping veterans, the Prime Minister stressed, is another key focus. According to him, the state should take care of them and help them integrate into civilian life after the war.

"We are establishing resilience centres in hromadas. These are spaces of effective psychosocial assistance. We must make it as easy as possible for all people to access such services," said Denys Shmyhal.

He also emphasised that one of the key elements of targeting and fairness of the social system is the principle "money follows the person".

The Government is also digitising the social sector to ensure its maximum transparency, efficiency and fairness. Some social services are available in Diia, and the list is constantly expanding with new options.

Denys Shmyhal noted that another key challenge was the demographic situation. The Government is developing a comprehensive cross-sectoral approach to address this issue. From childbirth payments to creating a friendly environment in communities for children and parents.