Theoretical foundations of state social support for veterans in the system of social policy

Abstract

The relevance of the topic is due to the current challenges associated with a sharp increase in the number of combat veterans and the need for their effective reintegration into civilian life. Ensuring effective social support for veterans is seen as an important component of the State's social policy, which contributes to the preservation of social justice and social cohesion. The purpose of the article is to study the theoretical foundations of the state social support for veterans in the system of social policy. The study uses the methods of theoretical generalization, analysis of legal acts and scientific publications, as well as a comparative approach to assess the models of support for veterans in different countries. As a result, the conceptual distinction between the concepts of “social protection” and “social support” was made; it was found that social support is a basic element of the social protection system, focused on targeted assistance to vulnerable categories of the population. The content of key definitions is analyzed and the peculiarities of the status of war veterans under national legislation are determined. The author characterizes the evolution of state policy towards veterans from a passive paternalistic model (with an emphasis on material payments and benefits) to an active participatory model that involves veterans in their own rehabilitation and development. The article summarizes domestic and foreign experience in supporting veterans, identifies common trends and effective practices. In addition, the basic principles and tools of state support for veterans are identified. It is concluded that the optimal strategy for the development of veterans' policy is the transition to an active inclusive model that combines state-guaranteed benefits with measures for social adaptation and self-realization of veterans, which is consistent with the principles of social justice and increases the efficiency of resource use. The proposed conclusions can serve as a basis for improving the regulatory framework and forming an effective system of support for veterans in the context of post-war reconstruction of Ukraine.