Security, education, justice, economy, and trust — on April 13, Aspen Institute’s Kyiv Seminar, “(Re)thinking the Social Contract for Ukraine”

Security, education, justice, economy, and trust — on April 13,  the Aspen Institute’s Kyiv Seminar, “(Re)thinking the Social Contract for Ukraine.” 

During the seminar, participants from various spheres — members of the Ukrainian Parliament, representatives of the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine, judiciary, business, education, charitable foundations, journalism, culture, military, and senior-level government officials — discussed the transformation of the social contract in the context of civilization shifts in Ukraine and the world. 

Here are some of the key points from the seminar:

• Security is the primary focus of society amidst the existential war with Russia. The economy, education, and government administration should be oriented towards it.
• Qualitative changes in education at all levels will strengthen the state’s security. This applies to both secondary and higher education, fostering civic competencies and virtues that influence the ability to counter propaganda.
• The demand for justice is a crucial factor influencing social stability in Ukraine.
• Ukrainian society’s consolidation determines our country’s place in the future world order and its role in addressing global issues.
• Important priorities include restoring trust in public service and increasing its effectiveness, especially regarding the most urgent challenges.
• A crucial element of state resilience is transitioning Ukraine to a war economy. Open dialogue among society, business, and the state will help understand vital economic priorities.
• The social contract should be inclusive, ensuring cooperation and social stability.

Denis Poltavets, Director of Program Development at Aspen Institute Kyiv, and Roman Kobets, Research Fellow at the H. S. Skovoroda Institute of Philosophy of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, moderated the seminar. Olena Fomina, Policy Program Director of the Aspen Institute Kyiv, coordinated the seminar.

Thanks to the participants for their openness and sincerity during the dialogue!

The “Social Contract for Ukraine” project is implemented with the support of NED (National Endowment for Democracy).