Rebuilding Society for People of Different Ages in Ukraine

On December 4, 2023, HelpAge International, an international organization of which the Charity Fund “Elderly” is a member, gathered in Kyiv. The meeting included the British Ambassador to Ukraine Martin Harris, Deputy Minister of Social Policy Uliana Tokareva, advisor and authorized representative of the President of Ukraine on accessibility issues Tetiana Lomakina, as well as leaders of the Ukrainian representation of HelpAge International and their international experts, along with representatives of civil organizations and charitable foundations in Ukraine. The purpose of the gathering was to discuss the role and participation of the elderly in the rebuilding of Ukraine. “Communities favorable to all ages are a long-term solution to an aging population,” began Dmitry Todorovich, the then director of HelpAge’s representation in Ukraine. This composition and format of the event allow various parties to hear each other, understand positions and perspectives, and coordinate efforts more effectively to create conducive conditions for the realization of the rights and needs of older people. On the second day, organizers convened a workshop with representatives from 7 non-governmental organizations: “League of the Strong,” “Right to Protection,” “Care for the Elderly in Ukraine,” “Elderly Foundation,” “Human Rights Laboratory,” “Mental Health Laboratory,” and the “National Assembly of People with Disabilities in Ukraine.” The goal was to collaboratively develop an advocacy plan—joint efforts in the recovery and construction of a society for all age groups. Among the main challenges and tasks for the near future, participants identified the joint development of a state strategy in this area with civil society, clearly outlined the problem, formulated the main goal and desired outcome, and conducted a detailed analysis of key players in the field. Future plans include developing key messages, tactics, risk assessments, and other important steps for advocacy on this crucial issue. Alina Dyachenko, head of the advocacy department of the “Elderly” Fund, shared her impressions from the workshop: “The most significant outcome of the second day was that representatives of non-governmental organizations working in the field of elderly people in Ukraine got acquainted with each other. They saw that there are so many caring and proactive individuals and communities and realized the need to unite efforts and act together and cohesively! This undoubtedly increases the chances of achieving the desired result—the possibility of a dignified and active life for the elderly in Ukraine.”