Problems of implementing anti-corruption policy in the social sphere

The article highlights current issues in the implementation of anti-corruption policy within Ukraine’s social sector, which constitutes one of the most critical segments of public administration, directly aimed at ensuring the social welfare of the population. The focus is placed on corruption risks emerging in the provision of social services, the allocation of benefits, the financing of social programs, and the use of budgetary funds earmarked for the most vulnerable groups of society. The complexity of implementing anti-corruption measures in the social sphere is determined by a range of systemic factors. These include legislative gaps that facilitate evasion of responsibility for misconduct, low transparency of administrative procedures, and the inefficiency of oversight and monitoring agencies. As a result, these factors lead to reduced effectiveness of social programs, inefficient resource allocation, and diminished public trust in state institutions. The article offers an in-depth analysis of current scientific approaches to combating corruption, including prevention and eradication strategies. It notes that the core challenges are not limited to insufficient legal regulation but also involve the limited institutional capacity of state authorities tasked with supervising the implementation of social programs. Particular attention is given to the role of civil society in combating corruption, as well as the use of digital technologies as an effective tool to enhance transparency in the social sphere. The need for increased public oversight, improved accountability mechanisms, and the introduction of innovative approaches to managing social resources is emphasized. The article proposes a series of recommendations for improving anti-corruption policy in Ukraine’s social sector. These include the development of new legislative acts to eliminate legal loopholes, the introduction of modern monitoring and control technologies, the professional development of social service personnel, and the strengthening of international cooperation in this field. In conclusion, the research underlines the importance of a systemic approach to curbing corruption in the social sector, aimed at ensuring transparency, accountability, and the effective implementation of social policies.