ENSURING INCLUSIVE PRACTICES IN UKRAINE IN THE TIME OF WAR: THE CASE OF LUBNY, POLTAVA OBLAST

Abstract

The study examines the problem of access to public services for vulnerable groups in Ukraine in the context of war and reconstruction. The main purpose of the study is to assess the implementation of inclusive practices in the provision of public services on the example of the city of Lubny (Poltava region). To achieve this goal, the methods of document content analysis, statistical analysis and comparative methods were used to assess the accessibility of services for different social groups.  The results of the study showed the main barriers that reduce the accessibility of public services for vulnerable groups, as well as positive factors that promote inclusion. In particular, the study revealed the importance of social initiatives, cooperation between state institutions and NGOs, and the adaptability of approaches to inclusiveness in the post-war reconstruction. Developing effective inclusive policies requires creating conditions for equal participation of all social groups in the decision-making process. Considerable attention is being paid to the introduction of digital platforms that provide simplified access to services and facilitate the involvement of citizens in addressing socially important issues. Initiatives aimed at developing digital literacy among the population and removing information barriers that become an obstacle to obtaining public services in times of crisis are particularly relevant. The study emphasises the importance of cooperation between different sectors, including government agencies, NGOs and international partners, which contributes to the more effective implementation of assistance programmes. In addition, it takes into account cultural and regional peculiarities that affect the success of inclusive solutions in different parts of Ukraine. The results of the study show the need for a comprehensive approach to implementing inclusive practices, including the development of networking between different institutions and community activation. The findings can serve as a basis for further research aimed at integrating inclusive approaches into the processes of post-war reconstruction in Ukraine.