In Germany, Denys Uliutin meets with Federal Minister of Education, Family Affairs, Senior Citizens, Women and Youth Karin Prien

During a working visit to Germany, Minister of Social Policy, Family and Unity of Ukraine Denys Uliutin met with Federal Minister of Education, Family Affairs, Senior Citizens, Women and Youth Karin Prien. The discussion was focused on the transformation of Ukraine’s social policy and the further development of bilateral cooperation.

“Social policy must respond to people’s real needs. We are transforming it into a comprehensive system that supports individuals at every stage of life. This vision is closely aligned with the approach applied in Germany, and we are therefore interested in deepening cooperation and exchanging practical solutions,” said Denys Uliutin.

Particular attention was given to support for families and children, a critical area for strengthening demographic resilience. The discussion addressed the transition from fragmented benefits to a system that reduces the burden on families, enables work–family balance, and supports early childhood development. The Minister noted Ukraine’s interest in learning from Germany’s experience in ensuring access to childcare services and implementing work–life balance policies.

The parties also discussed the reform of deinstitutionalisation. Denys Uliutin emphasised that Ukraine is moving towards a model centred on the child and the family, with support organised at the community level.

“We have a clear vision: every child should grow up in a safe family environment. The goal of the reform is not only to reduce the number of institutions, but to build an effective system in every community, where support is organised around the child and the family,” the Minister stressed.

In addition, the meeting addressed the return of Ukrainian children unlawfully held by Russia. The Minister informed the German side that more than 2,000 children have already been returned to Ukraine, and this work is ongoing. He emphasised that return is only the first step, followed by comprehensive support and reintegration for each child.

Following the meeting, the parties agreed to deepen cooperation in priority areas, particularly in family support, to establish regular expert-level dialogue between the ministries, and to work on joint projects in the field of social protection.

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