The Ukrainian government, led by Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal, recently announced additional guarantees for vulnerable categories of citizens enrolled in the state’s Compulsory State Social Insurance Fund (VPL). These guarantees aim to provide additional support and protection for those who are most in need during these challenging times.
The VPL is a state-run social insurance program that provides medical and social benefits to Ukrainian citizens. It covers a wide range of services, including medical care, maternity leave, and disability benefits. However, there have been concerns that some vulnerable groups, such as low-income families, people with disabilities, and retirees, were not receiving enough support through the VPL.
In response to these concerns, the Cabinet of Ministers (Cabinet) has taken steps to address the issue. On August 19, 2020, the Cabinet approved a resolution that provides additional guarantees for vulnerable categories of citizens enrolled in the VPL. This decision was made after careful consideration of the current economic and social situation in Ukraine, which has been heavily impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
One of the key guarantees introduced by the Cabinet is a one-time financial assistance payment of 8,000 hryvnias (approximately $285) for families with children under the age of 18 who are enrolled in the VPL. This payment will be provided to families who have experienced a significant decrease in their income due to the pandemic. It is expected to benefit around 1.5 million families in Ukraine.
Additionally, the Cabinet has extended the period for receiving social benefits for people with disabilities and retirees. This means that these vulnerable groups will continue to receive financial support even if they are unable to work or have lost their jobs due to the pandemic. This decision will provide much-needed stability and security for those who are most at risk during these uncertain times.
Furthermore, the Cabinet has also increased the amount of financial assistance provided to families with children with disabilities. Previously, families with children with disabilities received 1,200 hryvnias (approximately $43) per month. With the new guarantees, this amount has been increased to 2,000 hryvnias (approximately $71) per month. This increase will help alleviate the financial burden on these families and ensure that their children receive the necessary care and support.
These additional guarantees from the Cabinet demonstrate the government’s commitment to protecting the most vulnerable members of society. It is a step in the right direction towards building a more inclusive and equitable society in Ukraine. Prime Minister Shmyhal emphasized the government’s responsibility to provide support to those in need, stating, «We must do everything possible to ensure that the most vulnerable categories of citizens receive the necessary support and assistance from the state.»
The decision to provide additional guarantees for vulnerable categories of citizens enrolled in the VPL has been met with widespread support from various organizations and individuals. Civil society groups have praised the government’s efforts to address the needs of vulnerable groups, while citizens have expressed their gratitude for the increased support during these difficult times.
In conclusion, the Ukrainian government’s decision to provide additional guarantees for vulnerable categories of citizens enrolled in the VPL is a positive and necessary step towards building a more inclusive and supportive society. The one-time financial assistance payment, extension of social benefits, and increase in financial assistance for families with children with disabilities will provide much-needed relief and security for those who are most in need. This decision reflects the government’s commitment to protecting the well-being of all citizens and ensuring that no one is left behind during these challenging times.
