Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — A delegation from Uzbekistan’s National Agency for Social Protection visited Georgia to study advanced models of support for vulnerable populations.

During the visit, meetings were held with representatives of Georgia’s Ministry of Labor, Health, and Social Protection, as well as leading organizations in the social protection sector. Discussions focused on key mechanisms for financing, monitoring, and delivering social services.

Particular attention was given to the voucher-based financing system, which covers over 50 types of social services, and the deinstitutionalization policy aimed at replacing large residential institutions with smaller community-based homes. This approach fosters a family-like environment and promotes the social integration of individuals with special needs.

The delegation also examined the work of non-governmental organizations providing social and educational services. Topics of interest included the implementation of daycare programs, home care services, and personal assistance initiatives. Additionally, an analysis was conducted on the training system for social service professionals, including caregivers and nurses.

Georgia’s experience in reforming its social protection system offers valuable insights, which Uzbekistan may consider when developing similar initiatives.