PROSPECTS FOR THE IMPLEMENTATION OF EUROPEAN MODELS OF SOCIAL WORK IN UKRAINE

Abstract

The article analyzes the essence and characteristics of European models of social policy and social work – Scandinavian, Continental, Anglo-Saxon, Mediterranean, and post-socialist. It examines their value foundations, mechanisms of social protection, institutional forms of public support, and the role of the state, community, and civil society in ensuring welfare. The possibilities of adapting these models to Ukrainian realities are outlined in the context of martial law, internal population displacement, and future post-war recovery. It is emphasized that Ukraine’s social protection system remains influenced by post-Soviet practices, has limited resources, imperfect legislation, and a shortage of qualified personnel. It is noted that the integration of European standards of social policy should take into account national and regional specificities.

Based on a comparative analysis, it is determined that the most promising for Ukraine is a modified Scandinavian model focused on combining state responsibility, social solidarity, and partnership among governmental, public, and international institutions.

The article proposes directions for reforming the social work system: development of human resources, improvement of management, transparency of financing, digitalization of services, and expansion of international cooperation.

It is concluded that the implementation of European approaches will contribute to the formation of an effective, human-centered system of social work and to strengthening social cohesion in Ukrainian society.

Additionally, the necessity of conducting interregional comparative studies is emphasized to identify the specific nature of social needs, assess financial capacity, develop innovative models of social support, and enhance the psychological and psychosocial dimensions of social work.