The European Union (EU) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), in partnership with the League of Social Workers of Ukraine NGO, hosted The Social Workers Forum titled “Drivers of Care in the Community.” The event became a unique platform for professional dialogue, experience exchange, and the implementation of innovative approaches in the field of social services, bringing together more than 140 representatives from state authorities, local self-government bodies, international organizations, and social sector professionals.

The Forum marked the concluding stage in presenting the findings of a comprehensive analysis of Ukraine’s social services sector, identifying the key challenges faced by communities and developing strategic recommendations to address them. Participants had the opportunity to share effective approaches and discuss ways to enhance the social services system, ensuring that it meets the current needs of communities and contributes to their sustainable development.

During the Forum, special attention was given to the integration of innovative approaches into the social services system, as well as the development of effective cross-sectoral cooperation between governmental bodies, the public sector, and international development partners. Participants discussed ways to improve funding mechanisms for social initiatives, expand access to services for vulnerable groups, and strengthen legal protection for social workers. A series of successful cases from different communities were also presented, which served as a backdrop for future reforms and improvements in the social protection system.

Oksana Zholnovych, Minister of Social Policy of Ukraine, highlighted that social services must be brought closer to people through active and capable communities that offer timely support to prevent crises. “This is not about isolated changes, but about building a sustainable system in which communities have the tools, service providers have the resources, and people have access to support. We have opened the social services market to include non-governmental organizations as well. Moreover, we have observed the effectiveness of several pilot services, such as supported living and aid provided through resilience centres. Social services are a resource for cohesion, new job creation, and long-term stability,” Ms. Zholnovych said.

Henrik Huitfeldt, Head of Section for Public Finance, Business Support, and Social Policies at the EU Delegation to Ukraine, underlined the importance of effective social protection systems and services to enhance the well-being of all Ukrainians. “The European Union remains committed to working with Ukraine in advancing innovative and sustainable reforms in the social sector. We believe that our joint efforts to improve the social service delivery will provide a solid foundation for the longer-term economic growth and social stability in communities across Ukraine,” Mr. Huitfeldt explained.

Jaco Cilliers, UNDP Resident Representative in Ukraine, emphasized the vital need to strengthen community capacities for addressing social challenges. “In times of global and local transformations, adapting social services to evolving realities is essential to ensure their relevance and impact. Together with our partners, we are working to create an enabling environment for communities to implement innovative and flexible models of social service delivery — ones that respond effectively to current needs and promote equal opportunities,” Mr. Cilliers noted.

The conference concluded with the adoption of a Resolution, which contained practical recommendations for state and local authorities on strengthening the social services system, improving working conditions for social workers, enhancing funding mechanisms, and increasing the effectiveness of social support.

Background

The Forum was organized in cooperation with the League of Social Workers of Ukraine NGO as part of the flagship “EU4Recovery — Empowering Communities in Ukraine” partnership between UNDP and the EU.

Media enquiries: Yuliia Samus, UNDP Ukraine Head of Communications; e-mail: yuliia.samus@undp.org