The round table discussion "Social Dialogue as a Basis for Good Governance: International Standards and European Experience" held on 21 March 2025, was focused on various key topics. These included the role of social dialogue, the adaptation of international standards and practices to support its development in Ukraine, and the selection of an appropriate social dialogue model, among others.

Mr Maciej Janczak, Head of the Council of Europe Office in Ukraine, emphasized: “Social dialogue is a fundamental process that underpins many rights protected by the European Social Charter. It is embedded within various provisions related to collective labour relations and joint consultations. The need for effective social dialogue is more relevant than ever in the context of adapting Ukrainian social and labour legislation to European standards. We will continue our support in this area to strengthen social dialogue in Ukraine in cooperation with our national and international partners.”

The event was attended by social partners, representatives from the central office and regional branches of the National Mediation and Conciliation Service, state authorities and institutions, members of the Parliament of Ukraine, as well as international partners.

During the round table, Ms Yana Simutina, a national expert of the Council of Europe, analysed social dialogue in light of the provisions of the European Social Charter and case law of the European Committee of Social Rights. She also presented an analytical review “Social dialogue as a key condition for sustainable development and European integration”.

Mr Dmytro Kukhniuk, Head of the National Mediation and Conciliation Service, concluded: “Today’s event showed that open and constructive discussions are key to real change. It is important to hear each other, exchange experiences, and share best practices in order to improve legislation on social dialogue. That is why our cooperation with international partners is an important step towards developing effective social dialogue, which is a prerequisite for Ukraine’s EU accession. Trust and mutual respect among all participants in this process are essential for achieving stability in social and labour relations.”

The round table was held at the initiative of the National Mediation and Conciliation Service with the support of the Council of Europe project “Enhanced social protection in Ukraine” and the International Labour Organisation.

The Council of Europe project “Enhanced social protection in Ukraine” project is implemented under the framework of the Council of Europe Action Plan for Ukraine “Resilience, Recovery and Reconstruction” for 2023-2026, aimed at improving social protection for vulnerable groups, particularly those affected by the war.