Today, September 27, 2024, marked the opening of the second Global Digital Social Forum, where more than 300 participants - including government representatives, businesses, NGOs, and international partners - came together with a shared vision: transforming the future of social services through digital innovation.
Hosted by Ukraine’s Ministry of Social Policy, in collaboration with the United Nations World Food Program (WFP) and UNICEF, the forum sets the stage for unveiling groundbreaking solutions in social service digitalization. Topics range from the evolution of electronic case management to the broader impacts of tech-driven innovation on social welfare. New government initiatives and cutting-edge platforms are also set to debut.
But this forum is not just about new technology - it’s about people. As Minister of Social Policy Oksana Zholnovych eloquently stated, “Our focus is on every person - nobody is left behind.” Her words resonate with the core mission of Ukraine’s social policy: to support individuals in need, promote economic empowerment, and foster social integration to ensure a dignified life for all citizens.
In her speech, Zholnovych emphasized how digital solutions have transformed Ukraine’s social services landscape, making them more accessible and efficient. These innovations allow Ukrainians to receive the help they need more quickly and with fewer bureaucratic hurdles, a significant achievement in the face of ongoing challenges brought by Russia’s invasion.
A key voice at the forum, Mykhailo Fedorov, Ukraine’s Deputy Prime Minister for Innovation, Education, Science, and Technology Development, highlighted the importance of digital transformation in the social sector: “We are launching digital services so that Ukrainians can receive the necessary support without unnecessary bureaucracy.” Fedorov praised the progress of the Unified Social Information System and its integration with Diia, a platform that enables citizens to access vital services with just a few clicks, removing the need for long queues and paperwork.
Richard Reagan, WFP Resident Representative in Ukraine, echoed these sentiments: “Innovative technologies are crucial in supporting the most vulnerable.” Reagan emphasized that the digitalization of social services will help Ukraine respond to war-related challenges while laying the foundation for the country’s future social infrastructure.
The forum also underscores the importance of international cooperation. Munir Mammadzadeh, UNICEF Representative in Ukraine, shared that millions of Ukrainian families and children stand to benefit from these advancements. Together with UNICEF and other partners, Ukraine is launching a national communication campaign and training nearly 4,000 social workers to ensure that the new digital case management system works efficiently for those who need it most.
As Ukraine faces the daunting task of rebuilding its social fabric in the wake of war, digital innovation is leading the way, helping the nation care for its citizens while creating a more efficient, transparent system. With the combined efforts of the government, international partners, and cutting-edge technology, the vision of an inclusive and empowered society is becoming a reality.
For further updates, visit the Ministry of Social Policy's official website.
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