Labour Market and Demographic Challenges in Wartime: Economic Consequences for Ukraine
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: The full-scale war has become a major factor affecting Ukraine’s labour market and demographic development. Large-scale migration, population displacement, labour force losses, and demographic decline have created significant challenges for economic growth and post-war recovery. Under these conditions, preserving and restoring human capital has become a key priority for ensuring economic resilience and long-term development.The purpose of the article is to analyse labour market trends and demographic challenges in Ukraine during the war and to determine their economic consequences. The study applies a systems approach, comparative analysis, statistical assessment, and generalisation methods. Particular attention is paid to the interaction between labour market transformations, migration processes, and demographic changes.The results indicate that the war has intensified existing demographic problems, including population decline, ageing, lower birth rates, and labour shortages. Mass migration and internal displacement have altered labour supply and demand, increased sectoral imbalances, and affected employment opportunities. Special attention is given to the role of internally displaced persons, refugees, veterans, and economically active population groups in future labour market recovery.The study confirms that labour shortages and demographic losses may become major constraints on Ukraine’s post-war economic development. Therefore, labour market regulation, demographic policy, social protection, and human capital development should be considered as interconnected components of economic recovery policy. The article substantiates the need for measures aimed at increasing labour force participation, supporting workforce reintegration, encouraging return migration, and improving labour productivity.The practical value of the research lies in the development of recommendations for strengthening labour potential, reducing demographic risks, and improving employment policy. The proposed approaches may be used in designing labour market and demographic strategies that support sustainable economic growth and post-war reconstruction in Ukraine.
Source: Economic scope
Author: Valeriy Lykhvar
Institution: Kyiv University of Law
Language: English
Topic: Labor Market and Education
Subfield: Economics and Econometrics
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
OpenAlex ID: W7204166243