Social work and education

BETWEEN CLASSICISM AND INNOVATION (A REVIEW OF THE NEW FACE OF SOCIAL WORK: CONTEMPORARY THEORIES AND APPROACHES BY TETYANA SEMIGINA AND OLHA STOLYARYK)

2025-11-02T12:32:49+02:00

This review analyzes a recent Ukrainian textbook dedicated to contemporary theories of social work (The New Face of Social Work: Contemporary Theories and Approaches by Tetyana Semigina and Olha Stolyaryk, 2025). The focus is placed on the structure, content, and methodological approach adopted by the authors, who offer a holistic vision of the transformation of social work as a science, profession, and practice. The textbook’s value for the theoretical training of students and practitioners is assessed. The review concludes that the publication makes a significant contribution to the development of the Ukrainian-language academic and educational space in social work.

Using the WCAG standard in educational projects as a tool for developing digital and inclusive competence

2025-10-31T22:59:01+02:00

The article analyzes the implementation of the WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standard in Ukraine in the context of the development of digital technologies and ensuring inclusion in social work through design. The impact of digitalization on the accessibility of information resources for persons with disabilities, in particular in the field of social services, is studied. The main challenges faced by social services in adapting web resources to international accessibility standards are identified, and alternative approaches and technologies are considered to ensure equal access to information and services for all citizens.

The article highlights the importance of implementing the WCAG standard in Ukraine, analyzes the current state of affairs, identifies the main challenges and suggests ways to overcome them through the use of innovative technologies and the development of inclusive practices in social work. Ensuring the accessibility of digital resources is a key element of creating a fair and inclusive society that meets the requirements of the modern world.

The implementation of the WCAG standard in Ukraine is an important step towards ensuring inclusivity and equal access to digital services for all citizens. Despite certain challenges, such as the lack of clear regulatory requirements, technical and cultural barriers, there are significant opportunities to improve accessibility through the implementation of modern technologies and the development of inclusive practices. Comparative analysis shows that successful implementation of WCAG is possible provided there is a comprehensive approach, including regulatory support, educational initiatives and financial resources. The implementation of the WCAG standard in Ukraine is a necessary step to ensure inclusivity and equal access to digital services. Compliance with accessibility standards will contribute to the social integration of persons with disabilities and improve the quality of social services provided in the digital environment.

Training of future social workers to volunteer activity

2025-08-17T16:24:46+03:00

In the article, the role of volunteer activities in higher education institutions in Ukraine is explored in the context of the full-scale war started by the Russian Federation on February 24, 2022. The main directions and forms of involvement of university communities - students, teachers, staff, and alumni - in volunteer initiatives aimed at supporting the Armed Forces of Ukraine, internally displaced persons, and affected communities are highlighted. The experience of four higher education institutions is analyzed: Volyn National University named after Lesya Ukrainka, Donetsk National University named after Vasyl Stus, National University 'Ostroh Academy,' and Yaroslav Mudryi National Law University.

Two models of organizing volunteer work in higher education institutions have been identified: a centralized model (through the creation of humanitarian and volunteer centers and headquarters) and a decentralized model (at the level of faculties and student groups). Special attention is given to the activities of the Volunteer Center at NaUOA and the Humanitarian Headquarters at NYU, which coordinate the collection and distribution of humanitarian and military aid, interact with public, charitable, and international organizations. The significance of initiatives aimed at providing psychological support to students, teachers, military personnel, and internally displaced persons is highlighted, including the involvement of foreign specialists and online consultations. It is proven that volunteering in higher education institutions contributes to the formation of professional competencies of future social workers, the development of social responsibility, resilience to crisis situations, and the strengthening of democratic values in society. The research results can be used to improve the training system for social sector specialists and to integrate volunteer practices into the educational activities of universities.

Artificial intelligence for social work: dimensions of practice transformation

2025-10-31T23:27:46+02:00

The analysis revealed that the human element (social worker and client) remains central to digital interaction. AI does not replace, but rather transforms, the professional's role, demanding new digital and ethical competencies. It's emphasized that social workers view AI as a supportive tool for decision-making, retaining responsibility for its interpretation and adoption, which underscores the enduring importance of human empathy and judgment. The study also highlights the necessity of bridging the digital divide to ensure inclusive access to technology for all population groups.

The multifaceted technological potential of AI is explored. Key functions identified include: big data analysis for predictive analytics (e.g., early detection of social risks like verbal abuse or signs of mental health crisis), optimizing virtual client interaction through chatbots, automating routine tasks, and enhancing administrative efficiency. The article stresses AI's capacity to generate new knowledge that facilitates more informed and personalized interventions.

It was determined that AI implementation occurs within a complex socio-organizational and legal environment. This necessitates the development of professional standards, protocols, and regulatory mechanisms to address ethical challenges, particularly algorithmic bias, confidentiality concerns, and transparency issues.

Overall, the article underscores that AI integration into social work represents a sociotechnical transformation, opening significant opportunities for service improvement. However, its success hinges on preserving the humanistic foundations of the profession, continuous ethical reflection, and the establishment of an adequate legal and organizational framework.

Development of adolescents' social skills in the context of sexual education

2025-10-31T23:47:35+02:00

The issue of sexuality education for adolescents is relevant because, due to the lack of meaningful information about the consequences of intimate relationships between men and women, adolescents learn the specifics of such relationships through their own, not always successful, experience, and receive the necessary information from friends and online resources. In particular, the lack of effective sexuality education programs for adolescents leads to the formation of distorted ideas about sexual role behavior, and is also one of the factors that reduce the age of sexual debut.

The article notes that the purpose of sexuality education is to form adolescents' responsible attitudes toward intimate relationships and their own reproductive health, and to provide them with scientific and unbiased information that will help them make informed decisions about their sexual life.

The key objectives of the study are to identify and summarize the elements of sexuality education that are important for responsible attitudes toward intimate relationships and reproductive health, and to provide scientific and unbiased information that will help adolescents make informed decisions about their sexuality. This will allow adolescents to better understand themselves and form their attitudes towards sexuality education and its components.

The authors define models of sexuality education (liberal model; repressive model; “golden mean” model), identify the main challenges that complicate the implementation of quality sexuality education for adolescents (disruption of the education system due to the war, psycho-emotional stress and traumatic experience, lack of a systematic state policy in the field of sexuality education, increased risky behavior and threats to reproductive health), emphasize that changing attitudes is much more difficult than the level of knowledge about sexual behavior of adolescents.

Based on the results of the generalized analysis, it is concluded that adolescents need love, support, a safe social environment, and special knowledge and skills to form and develop their own sexual identity.

Social support for people with hearing impairments in the community

2025-11-01T00:03:24+02:00

The article summarizes the experience of implementing a social project supported by the Abilis Foundation, titled «Support for Mentors from Among People with Hearing Impairments». The project enabled social inclusion for individuals with hearing impairments, providing them with new knowledge and practical experience to foster active engagement through education, the development of personal strengths, social skills formation, and motivation for social change within the community. Thanks to the project, people with hearing impairments have acquired the status of active participants in public life and agents of change for others with similar challenges, acting as motivators in generating creative ideas to improve quality of life and enhance safety under wartime conditions.

The expansion of the mentor network and the improvement of mentor qualifications proved timely and appropriate. This was achieved through regular training sessions and seminars for new mentors, the use of online platforms, and the organization of outreach roundtables to facilitate experience-sharing between communities.

Noteworthy is the creation and implementation of educational programs aimed at developing financial literacy, leadership skills, stress management, and civic initiative among individuals with hearing impairments. Efforts were also made to improve communication for people with hearing impairments through the implementation of information and social service access technologies, as well as training activities on how to use these technologies. The project also strengthened cross-sectoral cooperation through meetings and webinars with representatives of NGOs, local authorities, and educational institutions, promoting experience exchange, best practices, and the organization of joint projects and initiatives.

Social work with families and children in de-occupied communities: experience of charitable foundations

2025-08-21T11:39:28+03:00

Against the backdrop of active socio-political dynamics in Ukraine, social work with vulnerable categories of the population in the deoccupied territories is of particular importance. In this context, an important role is played by the activities of charitable foundations, which focus significant efforts on ensuring the basic needs of children and families, normalizing their vital activities. The purpose of the article is to analyze the features of the implementation of social work with families and children in deoccupied communities in the context of the experience of charitable foundations. The study identifies the main problems that hinder the implementation of effective social work in the deoccupied territories of Ukraine. It was found that the social activities of charitable foundations find practical implementation through various tools and formats, in particular, the provision of material assistance and psychological support, medical care, educational projects, reintegration programs for victims and internally displaced persons. The article systematizes data on the experience of social work with families in deoccupied communities of major charitable foundations, including the Center for Volunteering and Protection, the Let’s Help charitable foundation, the Viktor Leshchynskyi charitable foundation, the public association “Through the War”, public organizations “All-Ukrainian Youth Movement Let’s do it Ukraine” and “Ordinary People”, and the national scout organization of Ukraine “Plast”. The main forms and tools of social work of charitable foundations in the deoccupied territories are identified. It is substantiated that the activities of charitable foundations in the vector of social work, which operate in modern conditions in the deoccupied territories, are complicated by limited access, destruction of infrastructure, bureaucratization of the process of obtaining special permits, and limited resources. The need to expand the possibilities of implementing assistance programs for vulnerable categories of the population in deoccupied communities, develop the social functionality of charitable foundations, and intensify the investment process in the social sphere is proven.

Sexual education as a component of an individual's socio-psychological well-being

2025-07-29T10:52:46+03:00

This article explores the relationship between sexual education and an individual’s socio-psychological well-being. A review of existing research reveals a broad scientific consensus on the importance and necessity of purposefully organized sexual education. However, most studies focus on teenage audience due to their age-specific sensitivity to information about sexual relations, while insufficient attention is paid to the sexual awareness of adults. Scholars emphasize that adults often lack the necessary knowledge, which complicates open, meaningful communication about sexuality within the family context. Furthermore, the impact of sexual education on the formation of socio-psychological well-being remains under-researched.

The article identifies key components of sexual education that influence socio-psychological well-being. These include the development of an optimistic personal outlook through learned optimism; the creation of a socially supportive environment (social well-being); the enhancement of resilience to negative social influences (psychological well-being); attention to one’s material conditions (material well-being); the pursuit of overall life satisfaction, including contentment with social status and society; adherence to moral and ethical behavioral norms, which supports personal freedom in a philosophical sense; and acquiring specialized knowledge regarding sexual life. The article also presents the results of a study conducted among university students aimed at assessing their awareness of the influence of sexual education on socio-psychological well-being.

Social welfare in social and veteran policy bodies activities

2024-02-18T21:48:50+02:00

Modern problems of the social protection system and social services of the population indicate the need for its qualitative transformation in accordance with socio-economic and political challenges and the dominant needs of the population under martial law. This requires the application of a scientific approach to the analysis of the social protection system as an object of sociological and managerial reflection, in particular the management component.

The development of Ukrainian society in the present period, the transformation of the social, economic and political spheres of society involves the introduction of new approaches to managing the social protection system of the population, which, firstly, is associated with the gradual formation of a new model of social policy of the neoliberal type, secondly, the decentralization of the state administration system, and, thirdly - with the expansion of the sphere of interaction between the state and civil society, especially in the system of social protection and the provision of social services to the population. In general, in the conditions of transitivity of modern Ukrainian society, the characteristic features of which are the development of a social state, the development of a socially oriented economy and the formation of a democratic type of social management, the problem of modernization of the system of social protection and social services is extremely important both in a purely theoretical, and in practical aspects related to the process of providing social services during the war and post-war periods.

The management departments and services established in Ukraine ensure the implementation of state policy on social support and the provision of social services to persons belonging to vulnerable groups of the population and/or living in difficult life circumstances in cities. The task of social protection of the population is to bring social services closer to the citizens of the state, make them high-quality, reach every person, and not leave them without attention and timely assistance.

Social design of inclusive education for young people with disabilities

2025-09-15T06:34:29+03:00

The article provides a comprehensive scientific analysis of the problem of social planning of inclusive education for young people with disabilities in Ukraine, taking into account current global and national challenges. The purpose of the article is to provide scientific justification for the conceptual foundations and develop a framework model for social planning of inclusive education for young people with disabilities. The methodological basis of the study is a synthesis of pedagogical concepts, categories of social work, provisions of sociology of education, and social planning tools. Methods of comparative analysis, generalization of empirical and theoretical developments, and structural-functional modeling were used. Particular attention is paid to the analysis of the evolution of inclusive education in Ukraine (1991–2025), which went through three stages: integration, regulatory consolidation, and crisis adaptation. This allowed us to identify patterns of gradual institutionalization of inclusion and, at the same time, demonstrated its vulnerability in crisis conditions. The scientific novelty of the article lies in the development of the “4P” model (Rights, Resources, Partnerships, Performance), which allows combining the regulatory framework, resource capacity of educational institutions, cross-sectoral interaction, and performance assessment mechanisms into a coherent system. The paper provides a detailed justification of the content of each component of the model and shows their interdependence within a single project-oriented approach. The practical significance of the results obtained lies in the creation of a conceptual basis for the modernization of university policies, the development of public administration strategies in the field of inclusion, and the activation of civil society organizations aimed at supporting young people with disabilities. The findings can be used to improve the system for monitoring and evaluating the quality of inclusive education, optimize resource provision, and implement effective partnership models that will ensure the sustainable development of inclusive practices in higher education in Ukraine.

Rethinking social work through the lens of trauma-informed practice

2025-11-02T09:56:39+02:00

The article provides a conceptual and critical analysis of trauma-informed practice in the field of social work, in particular in the context of Ukrainian socio-cultural transformations. Trauma-informed practice is considered not only as a tool of professional interaction, but also as an ethical and philosophical framework that changes the paradigm of care: from paternalistic to partnership, from reactive to proactive approach. The focus is on the six key principles of TIP – safety, transparency, collaboration, choice, cultural sensitivity and empowerment – and their local interpretation in the post-Soviet and military experience of Ukraine. Scientific research critically examines the universal principles of trauma-informed practice, emphasizing the need for their localized interpretation in the local context, and trauma-informed practice is considered not only as a set of interventions, but as an ethical paradigm that transforms the notion of care, power, identity and subjectivity in professional interaction. Based on theoretical sources and critical literature, the risk of superficial institutionalization of trauma-informed practice without changing power mechanisms is analyzed, which may level its transformative potential. The need for rethinking the role of the social worker as a carrier of ethical reflection, an intermediary between systems and the client, who acts not only according to protocols, but with an awareness of one's responsibility and influence, is substantiated. A vector for further research is proposed: development of localized models of trauma-informed practice, integration of knowledge about the trauma-informed approach into the training of future social work professionals, as well as a focus on changing power practices within organizations.

Expert assessments of the challenges of digitalization of social services in rural communities

2025-11-02T10:17:50+02:00

This article presents the results of a study on the challenges associated with the digitalization of social services in rural communities of Ukraine. The study aimed to identify the principal problems and barriers that social work professionals face when introducing digital technologies into social support practices. The research used an expert survey method involving 18 social work practitioners representing 18 rural communities from different regions of Ukraine.

The findings indicate that the digitalization of social services in rural communities is uneven and hampered by multiple difficulties. Key challenges cited by respondents include insufficient technical infrastructure, limited access to stable Internet, low levels of digital competencies among both service users and providers, and a shortage of training programs and methodological guidance. Low public awareness of available digital services and weak intersectoral cooperation at the community level further complicate the digital transformation.

Challenges were grouped into four problem blocks: technical barriers, personnel limitations, organizational difficulties, and value-motivational aspects. To increase reliability, results are illustrated with direct quotes from experts, highlighting the practical dimension of the issue.

Based on expert assessments, the article proposes directions for overcoming the identified barriers: developing digital competencies of professionals and clients; creating inclusive digital infrastructure; preparing training and methodological resources for social work practitioners; strengthening interagency cooperation at the local level; and integrating national and regional digital transformation programs into rural development strategies.

The results are of practical relevance to local governments, social service providers, educational institutions, and NGOs seeking to improve accessibility and quality of social services in rural areas. They may also inform national policy on digitalization of the social sector, taking into account the specific needs and capacities of rural territories.

Integration of barrier freeness accessibility into educational standards: challenges and prospects of professional training

2025-06-02T15:49:08+03:00

The article examines and substantiates the importance of understanding the principles of barrier-freeness by future specialists in various fields. A theoretical analysis of the content characteristics of the concept of «barrier-free» in the context of modern social policy and professional activity is presented. The study reveals that many state standards for specialties in various fields do not contain direct references to the principles of accessibility, inclusion, or universal design. Competencies and learning outcomes are often focused primarily on technical aspects, without adequately addressing the needs of users with disabilities.

The necessity of integrating accessibility principles into higher education Bachelor's degree programs across various specialties is also addressed. The practical aspects of applying the requirements of the accessibility policy in professional activity are analysed, which contributes to the creation of an inclusive environment and expanding access for all categories of the population. Key competencies that allow future specialists in various fields to effectively implement barrier-free solutions in their daily practice are identified and substantiated. Based on the research, recommendations are provided for revising and updating state higher education standards. These revisions should incorporate provisions that cultivate an understanding of accessibility principles and practical skills for ensuring accessibility in professional contexts among students.

Relationship between Stressors and Students’ Academic Achievements with mediation of coping strategies: A Survey of Gomal University, Khyber PakhtunKhwa, Pakistan

2025-05-20T15:40:03+03:00

The current study focuses on the relationship between stressors and academic achievement of students with the mediating of coping strategies. Students of Gomal University Dera Ismail Khan (D.I.K) were participated in the study. A sample of 389 students was selected through stratified sampling method. A self-developed questionnaire was distributed among the students for data collection. Regression techniques and Hayes (2015) process macro was used for mediation analysis. The result of the study indicates that coping strategies partially mediates in the association between stressors and students’ academic performance.

Gamification in Management Education: Enhancing MBA Student Engagement and Performance through Game-Based Learning Technologies

2025-05-21T12:37:16+03:00

This study explores the integration of game-based learning technologies within management education to evaluate their influence on student engagement, motivation, and academic performance. The primary purpose is to assess whether gamification can enhance the learning experience for postgraduate business students by replicating real-world challenges in an interactive environment. A mixed-methods research design was adopted, involving surveys, classroom observations, and academic performance data from 150 MBA students across five Indian business schools. Game-based tools such as simulations, point systems, digital quizzes, and interactive role-play were implemented in subjects including marketing, operations, and strategic management. Quantitative analysis revealed that students exposed to gamified instruction demonstrated improved motivation levels, higher participation rates, and a statistically significant increase in academic scores. Qualitative feedback from focus group discussions further emphasized students’ preference for engaging, challenge-based activities over traditional lectures. The study concludes that gamification fosters active learning, improves conceptual understanding, and contributes to better classroom dynamics. However, it also highlights the need for thoughtful implementation, faculty training, and technological support. It is recommended that management institutes gradually incorporate structured gamified modules aligned with course outcomes and industry applications. Additional data collected includes comparative test scores, student satisfaction ratings, and faculty observations, which support the positive impact of gamification. The findings provide actionable insights for educators, curriculum designers, and academic administrators aiming to modernize MBA pedagogy through technology-enhanced strategies.

ETHICAL STANDARDS AND CODES IN SOCIAL WORK: INTERNATIONAL AND NATIONAL CONTEXT

2025-10-31T18:36:32+02:00

The article is dedicated to the analysis of ethical standards and codes in social work at both international and national levels, aiming to identify guidelines for Ukrainian practice. In the context of globalization processes and rapid transformations of social service systems in Ukraine, it is crucial to ensure that professional activities comply with contemporary ethical requirements, human rights, and principles of social justice. The study reviews global ethical principles adopted by the International Federation of Social Workers (IFSW) and the International Association of Schools of Social Work (IASSW), as well as national codes from Canada, Germany, and the United Kingdom. The research is based on the results of a desk study (desk research).

The analysis demonstrates that ethical codes can operate at different levels (global, national, organizational). They serve both guiding and protective functions, define professional behavior in complex situations, provide a basis for disciplinary procedures, and support professional autonomy. The study highlights the diversity of approaches to applying ethical standards at the national level.

The Ukrainian context is also examined: the “Ethical Code of Social Work Specialists of Ukraine,” adopted in 2005, is now outdated, and a professional regulatory system is practically absent; several professional associations exist, but none hold the status of an authorized regulator. Based on comparative analysis, the study proposes updating the code to align with international standards, human rights, and principles of inclusion, as well as developing a professional regulatory system and mechanisms to monitor compliance with ethical norms. The findings may be useful for improving national policy on social service quality, educational programs, and social work practice in Ukraine.

Discipline “Methodology of scientific research” for future specialists of the social sphere in the context of developing new standards of higher education and social changes

2025-09-09T11:49:59+03:00

The materials of the article present the results of the study of the issue of updating the discipline "Methodology and Organization of Scientific Research" for future specialists in the social sphere in the context of developing new standards of higher education and taking into account current problems in Ukrainian social work that require study.

The research methodology included an analysis of regulatory documents related to the research problem; analysis of publications by Ukrainian specialists dedicated to current changes in social work in Ukraine during the war, as well as innovations in scientific research in the social sphere; generalization of the results obtained.

The article presents an analysis of regulatory changes in the context of the problem. In particular, it is emphasized that the Ukrainian education system is undergoing a process of developing new standards of higher education, the prerequisites of which are a new edition of the List of Fields of Knowledge and Specialties (Resolution of the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine No. 1021 of 08/30/2024), the list of "regulated" specialties (Order of the Ministry of Education and Science of Ukraine No. 373 of 02/27/2025); amendments to Article 10 “Higher Education Standards” of the Law of Ukraine “On Higher Education” (Law of Ukraine No. 3642-IX) and others. Currently, new higher education standards are being developed in Ukraine for the training of social sphere specialists according to the updated list of specialties, in particular specialty I 10 Social Work and Counseling and specialty I 11 Children and Youth Services (branch of Health Care and Social Security).

The discipline “Methodology and Organization of Scientific Research” is one of the mandatory components of the educational program at the second (master's) level of higher education; its organization and content must take into account: regulatory requirements; current changes in the scientific field, research methodology; innovations in the relevant field of knowledge and current practical problems that need to be solved. An integral component of the discipline's work program are modules/topics on academic integrity, research ethics.

In developing the content of training future social sphere specialists in the specialty I 10 Social Work and Counseling, in particular in determining the topics of master's theses and student research, it is necessary to take into account the most relevant aspects of the theory and practice of social work, in particular in the context of the war in Ukraine and post-war reconstruction.

Psychosocial support for participants in the educational process in crisis conditions

2025-07-28T19:23:08+03:00

Full-scale invasion, mass forced displacement, threats to life and health, and traumatic experiences contribute to the spread of complex emotional states, psychological stress, and stress disorders among participants in the educational process. The most vulnerable in such conditions are higher education students, who require special attention and support. Instability, a sense of danger, loss of the usual way of life, the breakdown of social ties, anxiety and uncertainty about the future complicate the learning process, reduce motivation and affect the psychosocial health of students. The article highlights the problem of psychosocial support for participants in the educational process in crisis conditions as one of the key factors in adaptation, preservation of psychosocial health, professional formation and self-development. The main psycho-emotional challenges caused by crisis situations are analyzed and approaches to organizing psychosocial support in higher education institutions are presented (crisis counseling, psychoeducation, resilience development, motivational interviewing, interdisciplinary approach), which ensure holistic support for participants in the educational process.

Special attention is paid to the formation of a supportive and safe educational environment. Specific mechanisms for implementing psychosocial support in crisis conditions are proposed, in particular, the transformation of the educational environment for the adaptation of applicants (modification of programs, flexible schedules; creation of centers for psychosocial support of participants in the educational process; training of teachers in the basics of crisis response; implementation of e-learning platforms with resources for self-help; promotion of constant interaction of all participants in the educational process; individual psychological consultations, training sessions, group classes, medical and social counseling, preventive measures and educational activities to prevent negative phenomena; use of pedagogical technologies); cooperation with non-governmental organizations that provide psychosocial support.

The authors see promising areas of research in assessing the quality of providing psychosocial support to applicants in a higher education institution using empirical methods.

Social support and inclusive approaches in the postgraduate education of veterans: contemporary challenges and directions of professional training

2025-07-28T19:05:12+03:00

The article considers current aspects of professional training of veterans in the system of postgraduate education in the conditions of a changing social environment and martial law. Special attention is paid to the implementation of inclusive approaches to the organization of the educational process, the formation of competencies and the development of social responsibility. The importance of social support as a factor in the successful integration of veterans into the professional environment is substantiated. Based on the experience of American universities, particularly Brown University, a model of veteran support during the educational process is proposed, taking into account their individual needs and life experiences.

Between formal partnerships and real impact: how lack of autonomy weakens local participation in humanitarian programs

2025-07-19T15:48:43+03:00

The topic of the article is “Between formal partnership and real impact: how the lack of autonomy weakens local participation in humanitarian programs”. The purpose of the study is to identify how the lack of autonomy of local humanitarian organizations weakens their local participation in humanitarian programs. The article focuses on the problem of limited autonomy of local organizations in the implementation of international humanitarian programs in Ukraine. The methodology of the study is based on a theoretical and analytical approach to understanding the processes and concepts that are directly related to the localization of humanitarian aid. The author examines how formalized partnerships without real influence from local actors lead to inefficiency, loss of trust in communities, duplication of initiatives, and reduced adaptability of programs to the context. The author considers autonomy as a basic humanitarian principle that implies independence from political, economic and other external influences, as well as the difficulties of observing it in the context of conflicts and emergencies. Particular attention is paid to the concept of partnership in the humanitarian sector, its potential and challenges, in particular, the inequality in influence and access to resources between international and local organizations. Particular attention is paid to practical examples of interaction between international agencies and Ukrainian NGOs in 2022-2024, which allows to identify barriers to sustainable development and the potential for change. The article offers recommendations for reforming partnership models and the principles of fair localization of humanitarian aid. The findings of the study can be used to improve the effectiveness of localization of humanitarian response in Ukraine. The conclusions note that the limited autonomy of domestic humanitarian organizations in partnership with international structures leads to formalization of the participation of local actors, duplication of efforts, reduced program effectiveness, and loss of motivation among local teams.