FINANCIAL INCLUSION: ESSENCE, MEANING AND PRINCIPLES IN THE BANKING SECTOR OF UKRAINE

The article substantiates the importance of the financial system in the country’s recovery during the war period and its adaptation to the challenges of wartime. Financial inclusion is considered a key factor in socio-economic development, aimed at ensuring access to financial services for all categories of the population, including socially vulnerable groups. Particular attention is paid to international initiatives in the field of financial inclusion, in particular, studies by the IMF and the World Bank, which assess the level of financial accessibility and its impact on economic development. It is noted that 2024 became a turning point in the development of financial inclusion, with the transition from gradual improvements to systemic transformations. Also, changes in the approaches of international organizations, such as CGAP and UNSGSA, which are aimed at expanding the impact of financial services through the integration of social and economic factors, are indicated. The importance of financial inclusion for Ukraine in the context of economic recovery, in particular, through ensuring access to financial services for war veterans, contributing to their social and economic reintegration, is described. The active role of the National Bank of Ukraine in supporting financial stability and development of the financial market, as well as in implementing a sustainable development strategy in accordance with international ESG standards, is noted. The article also outlines the main principles and aspects of financial inclusion, including its accessibility, acceptability, cost-effectiveness and quality of services. Key indicators for assessing the level of financial inclusion are identified, such as access to financial services, the level of financial literacy, social inclusion and innovative technologies. It is noted that financial inclusion is not an end in itself, but acts as a tool for achieving higher goals, such as sustainable development, economic growth and reducing inequality. In addition, the financial sector should not only ensure access to services, but also contribute to real improvements in the well-being of the population.