National Forum of Social Change Leaders Took Place in Kyiv

November 7, 2025, The National Forum of Social Change Leaders in Kyiv has become a platform to discuss the challenges and priorities of Ukraine’s social policy during the full-scale war and the post-war recovery period. Key discussion areas included the integration of internally displaced persons, support for families and children, the development of rehabilitation and prosthetics systems, as well as maintaining engagement with Ukrainians abroad and facilitating their voluntary return.

The Forum brought together more than 200 leaders and professionals from the social sphere across all regions of Ukraine. They showcased how national social policies are being implemented locally, sharing their own initiatives and successful community practices.

The Forum was opened by Denys Uliutin, Minister of Social Policy, Family and Unity of Ukraine. He underscored that meaningful and sustainable social policy is possible only through joint efforts of the state, communities, and business sector — and there are already tangible examples of such cooperation. The key task now, he said, is to support those who need help the most, as well as those who dedicate their lives to caring for others.

“Social policy is not about problems themselves — it is about how to solve them and support people through that process. We thank everyone who, day after day, cares for others and gives people confidence in tomorrow,” said Denys Uliutin.

He also noted that social policy is evolving beyond a set of benefits and payments — it is becoming a pathway of personalized support through case management, helping people reintegrate into active life. Following this principle, the Ministry’s team is developing a Social Code of Ukraine.

Members of Parliament Halyna Tretiakova and Tetiana Skrypka emphasized that social policy must remain people-centered, and that peer exchange and mutual support among professionals are key to achieving results.

“It’s inspiring to have meetings like today’s — opportunities to support and motivate one another. Miracles are made by people, and each of you contributes to them. Anthropologists have noted that humanity survived thanks to mutual aid. If we continue this support, such miracles will keep happening,” said Halyna Tretiakova, Member of Parliament and Chair of the Verkhovna Rada Committee on Social Policy and Protection of Veterans’ Rights.

“Today we are talking about what truly matters — people and communities, their support and empowerment so they can not only endure but also recover and grow. We are working in wartime, facing numerous challenges, while rethinking the social sector and shaping a new culture of care, support, and trust. The effectiveness of our joint efforts will determine how well we can overcome these challenges,” stressed Tetiana Skrypka, Member of Parliament and Chair of the Subcommittee on Family and Children of the Verkhovna Rada Committee on Humanitarian and Information Policy.

The Forum’s opening was also attended by representatives of international organizations and civil society, who are partners actively working with Ukrainian regions and communities.

“Social work is often underestimated, yet it is the most essential — providing daily support to people on the ground. At UNHCR, we prioritize strengthening the social protection system at all levels in response to the challenges caused by the war,” said Bernadette Castel-Hollingsworth, Representative of the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) in Ukraine.

“Social service professionals are constantly finding solutions in almost impossible situations, where needs always exceed resources. They must decide what to do first to help people return to normal life as quickly as possible. A few years ago, this would not have been considered normal — but it is our reality today. Everyone is doing their utmost to help people regain independence and no longer need social support,” shared Valeriia Vershynina, Executive Director of the Stabilization Support Services Foundation.

Throughout the Forum, panel discussions were held on key areas of social policy. The National Forum of Social Change Leaders is organized by the Ministry of Social Policy, Family and Unity of Ukraine and the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) in Ukraine, with support from the Stabilization Support Services Foundation.