Oksana Zholnovych: Social services are a resource for cohesion, new jobs, and stability
Over 140 representatives from state authorities (including the Ministry of Social Policy team), local self-government, international organisations, and social sector professionals participated in the Social Workers’ Forum “Drivers of Care in the Community”. The event, organised by the European Union (EU) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in partnership with the NGO “League of Social Workers of Ukraine”, served as a platform for professional dialogue, experience sharing, and the adoption of innovative approaches in the field of social services.
The forum marked the culmination of a comprehensive analysis of Ukraine’s social services sector, identifying key challenges faced by communities and developing strategic recommendations to address them. Participants had the opportunity to exchange effective practices and discuss ways to improve the social services system to meet communities’ current needs and promote their sustainable development.
Ukraine’s Minister of Social Policy, Oksana Zholnovych, addressing the forum online, emphasised that social services must be closer to people – delivered through active, capable communities that provide timely support to prevent crises.
“This is not about piecemeal changes but about a sustainable system where communities have the tools, providers have the resources, and people have access to support. We have opened the social services market, where non-governmental organisations also operate. We see the effectiveness of several experimental services, such as assisted living and support through resilience centres. Social services are a resource for cohesion, new jobs, and stability,” said Oksana Zholnovych.
The forum focused heavily on integrating innovative approaches into the social services system and fostering effective cross-sectoral collaboration between state bodies, the civic sector, and international partners. Participants discussed ways to improve funding mechanisms for social initiatives, expand access to services for vulnerable groups, and strengthen legal protections for social workers. Successful practices from various communities were also presented, laying the groundwork for further reforms and improvements to the social protection system.
Henrik Huitfeldt, Head of Section for Public Finance, Business Support, and Social Policies at the EU Delegation to Ukraine, highlighted the importance of effective social protection systems and services for improving the living conditions of all Ukrainians. According to him, the European Union remains committed to working with Ukraine to implement innovative and sustainable social sector reforms. He expressed confidence that collaborative efforts to improve the delivery of social services would establish a strong basis for sustained economic growth and social stability in communities throughout Ukraine.
Jaco Cilliers, UNDP Resident Representative to Ukraine, stressed the critical need to strengthen community capacities to address social challenges. According to him, in times of global and local change, adapting social services to evolving circumstances is crucial for maintaining their relevance and effectiveness. Joint initiatives with partners aim to create a supportive environment where communities can implement innovative and adaptable models of social service delivery, ensuring they respond effectively to current needs and promote equal opportunities.
The conference concluded with the adoption of a Resolution containing practical recommendations for state and local authorities on strengthening the social services system, improving working conditions for social workers, refining funding mechanisms, and enhancing the effectiveness of social support.