Natalia Melnyk, Director of the Department of Economy and Investment of the Kyiv City State Administration, joined a training seminar on Japan's experience in building an inclusive society, social protection systems, post-war recovery mechanisms, and creating a barrier-free urban environment. The event was supported by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).

The seminar program focused on the role of local self-government in the recovery of communities after conflicts and natural disasters. Participants also learned in detail about the functioning of social protection, medical and pension insurance systems, long-term care programs for the elderly, as well as legislative mechanisms for building an inclusive society.

During the visit, Nataliia Melnyk visited JICA headquarters, where she was introduced to Japan's key social protection program, including the state pension insurance system, the social health insurance system, and cash support programs for low-income people. Particular attention was paid to an integrated approach to ensuring social security throughout a person's life.

There was also a visit to the Japan Organization for Employment of the Elderly, Persons with Disabilities and Job Seekers (JEED), where seminar participants were presented with an innovative employment model based on developing people's strengths and matching them with jobs according to their abilities and potential.

During the main session of the seminar, conducted by Deloitte Tohmatsu LLC, the concept of ‘Be Smart Tokyo’ was presented, which is being implemented as part of the ‘Tokyo 2050’ Development Strategy. The initiative involves the use of digital technologies to improve the quality of life for all categories of residents and is being implemented in partnership with businesses.

In order to study practical experience, the delegation visited the city of Akashi, which is recognized as one of the leaders in the field of creating an inclusive and barrier-free environment. Municipal representatives presented a systematic approach to urban development — from legislative decisions and financial incentives for businesses to the formation of a culture of respect and equality in the community. Akashi's experience is particularly valuable for Kyiv as an example of a comprehensive model of inclusive development.

A separate visit was made to the Embassy of Ukraine in Japan. During the meeting with Yuriy Lutovinov, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Ukraine to Japan, the parties discussed opportunities for deepening bilateral cooperation, prospects for implementing joint projects between Ukrainian and Japanese cities, as well as attracting Japanese technical assistance for the development of local self-government and post-war reconstruction.

According to Natalia Melnyk, participation in the JICA seminar provided an opportunity to study Japan's comprehensive approach to building a sustainable and inclusive society in greater depth.

‘The knowledge gained and contacts made will be of practical importance for the formation and implementation of strategic documents for the development of Kyiv, in particular in terms of post-war reconstruction, human capital development, and the introduction of accessibility as a cross-cutting principle of urban policy,’ she said.