On April 16, the interregional forum “The Social Sphere During Wartime: Regional Experience, Challenges, and Prospects” was held in Khmelnytskyi. The event, organized by the Charity Foundation “Stabilization Support Services” with support from UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency in Ukraine, brought together representatives from government bodies, local self-government, social protection institutions, non-governmental and international organizations, and IDP Councils from Khmelnytska and Chernivetska Oblasts. The forum’s goal was to discuss challenges, share experiences, and develop strategies for developing the social protection system amidst the full-scale war.
Participants noted that the war has placed an unprecedented strain on the social protection system. While people initially tried to solve problems on their own at the start of the full-scale invasion, the need for skilled support has since grown significantly, demanding the adaptation and modernization of existing approaches.
“At the beginning of the full-scale invasion, people were less focused on their personal problems. But in 2023 and 2024, we realized that the social sphere and its operations in wartime must be constantly modernized. We need to introduce electronic services because traditional methods no longer fully meet people’s needs,” said Mykhailo Kryvak, Deputy Mayor of Khmelnytskyi.
Key discussion topics included implementing state social policy at the local level, the operational aspects of social protection institutions in Khmelnytska and Chernivetska Oblasts during the war, organizing community-based social services, developing the social services market, digitalization, and engaging the civil society sector, particularly IDP Councils.
“The development of the social sphere is extremely relevant now, given that these services are needed by both local residents and internally displaced people in both oblasts. The forum addressed the unique social protection aspects of the two regions and highlighted collaboration with the public sector,” emphasized Kateryna Savytska, Field Advisor at UNHCR.
During panel discussions, participants shared their experiences in providing social services. Representatives from Chernivetska Oblast discussed their successful implementation of paid social services, which generated considerable interest from their Khmelnytska Oblast colleagues. The Department of Social Protection of the Khmelnytska Oblast State Administration offered to conduct training on using the Register of Social Service Providers. Innovative approaches were also a focus of discussion.
“Our Social Services Center of the Khmelnytskyi City Territorial Community is actively implementing new technologies and methods. We provide social services to those in difficult circumstances, but we also conduct training on emotional and professional burnout for teams and invite others to join. This is a new initiative for us. We are now working on equipping a space for teenagers, and we already have a children’s space,” said Maryana Liubetska, Head of the Khmelnytskyi City Social Services Center.
In addition to discussions, the forum featured interactive formats such as a “fishbowl” session, the “You Are Home” photo exhibition on IDP integration stories, and an art therapy session for participants.
The event fostered a constructive dialogue, demonstrating the commitment of representatives from Khmelnytska and Chernivetska oblasts to collaborate on strengthening the social protection system and effectively supporting the population during the war.
The event was held by the Charity Foundation “Stabilization Support Services” with the support of UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency in Ukraine.
