Ministry of Social Policy and WFP Expand Cooperation on Social Sector Digitalization

The Ministry of Social Policy of Ukraine and the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) held discussions on expanding cooperation, with the digitalization of the social sector identified as a key priority. This will enhance the effectiveness of already implemented joint initiatives. The meeting was attended by Ukraine’s Minister of Social Policy Oksana Zholnovych and CDTO of the Ministry Anatolii Komirnyi, as well as WFP Executive Director Cindy McCain and WFP Ukraine Country Director Richard Ragan.

The cooperation between the Ministry of Social Policy and WFP covers various areas and is aimed at the comprehensive development of the social support system in Ukraine. Among the joint initiatives is additional financial assistance for Ukrainians, implemented since August 2023. It covers pensioners living in areas of active or living in areas affected by or at risk of hostilities who receive low pensions, adults and children with disabilities, as well as those ineligible for pensions. In December 2024, the project was expanded to include new categories of recipients in nine frontline regions. Thanks to the program, over 315,000 Ukrainians receive additional financial assistance monthly, totaling 216 million hryvnias.

The initiative, implemented through the collaboration of the Ministry of Social Policy and WFP.

reflects the combined efforts of the Government and international organizations to provide effective targeted support and can serve as an example for other countries facing crises. Based on modern digital solutions, this project ensures the accuracy and timeliness of social assistance, directing it to those who need it most.

WFP has supported the digitalization direction since 2022 — when the Unified Information System of the Social Sphere (UISSS) was piloted at the onset of the full-scale invasion. Its implementation enabled the state to respond to urgent citizen needs in real time, even under the most challenging conditions.

"Our cooperation with the World Food Programme confirms that modern and effective humanitarian response practices can be implemented in Ukraine. Challenges are growing more complex, and needs are evolving, which is why it is crucial to act proactively to prevent people from falling into difficult life circumstances. And if it does happen, to do everything necessary to provide timely assistance as quickly as possible. Digital tools already help us respond promptly and in a targeted manner today, and strengthening cooperation will enhance the effectiveness of these solutions and make them more accessible to those who need them most," said Oksana Zholnovych, Ukraine’s Minister of Social Policy.

With the support of international partners, the Ministry of Social Policy developed the official Social Portal of the Ministry of Social Policy (soc.gov.ua). There, Ukrainians can submit online applications for social services as well as for rehabilitation aids.

"WFP supported the development of this digital portal as part of our broader partnership with the Government of Ukraine to build a modern and resilient social protection system capable of addressing today’s challenges. We worked closely to develop a system that is transparent, easily accessible, and able to provide effective support to those who need it most. I look forward to continuing our collaboration for even greater achievements in assisting the people of Ukraine," said Cindy McCain, WFP Executive Director.

During the meeting, the parties discussed and shared their vision for further development of the UISSS, particularly the possibility of creating an analytical subsystem. This will facilitate deeper analysis of citizens' needs and more effective planning of social support at various levels.

The Minister also shared with partners the experience of implementing the resilience-building service — one of the Ministry’s most significant pilot projects. It involves establishing Resilience Centers in territorial communities — friendly, barrier-free spaces where anyone can receive free psychosocial support.

Special attention is given to women, who under full-scale war conditions often bear a double burden — for themselves and their loved ones. That is why the Ministry of Social Policy is rolling out a separate support program for women, tailored to their needs.

At the same time, the team is developing support mechanisms for older people displaced from combat zones. According to Oksana Zholnovych, this is one of the most challenging tasks today, as simply providing financial assistance is not enough — these individuals often require constant accompaniment, care, and proper living conditions in their new locations. For this, the Ministry of Social Policy engages all providers working in Ukraine’s social services sector.

It is worth noting that with WFP’s support, in 2025 alone, over 300 social sector professionals from across Ukraine underwent training to work effectively in the UISSS.