Ministry of Social Affairs and Health develops cooperation with Ukrainian administration and civil society organisations

A delegation of public officials from the Ministry of Social Affairs and Health visited Kyiv on 30 September and 1 October 2026, led by Permanent Secretary Veli-Mikko Niemi. During the visit, the delegation held discussions with the Ukrainian Ministry of Health and Ministry of Social Policy, Family and Unity, and received an overview of the current situation in the country from the Embassy of Finland in Kyiv.

"Civil society organisations play a crucial role in ensuring that assistance reaches those who need it,” said Permanent Secretary Niemi. During the visit, the delegation met local representatives of Finn Church Aid, the Ukrainian Red Cross and the Partnership Fund for a Resilient Ukraine. The work of the organisations supported by Finland focuses, among other things, on psychosocial support, mental health services and assistance for internally displaced people. A representative of the International Committee of the Red Cross country office outlined the organisation's work related to the exchange of prisoners and remains of deceased people, and its efforts to assist people who have been left behind the front line against their will.

The delegation also met the leadership of the World Health Organization (WHO) country office and Ukraine's Public Health Center. In addition, the officials had the opportunity to learn about the day-to-day work and preparedness of a hospital in Kyiv.

Finland supports Ukraine's healthcare and reconstruction

Finland will deepen cooperation with Ukrainian authorities and civil society organisations in the fields of health and social security. A technical cooperation agreement covering the health and social sectors was concluded between Finland and Ukraine in 2024.

This year, preparations have begun for a bilateral social security agreement between Finland and Ukraine.